CANADA POST STAMPS
ILLUSTRATION
CLIENT: Toronto Film School
THE ASK
The Canadian Postal Service is commissioning new stamps for their “Permanent” collection. This includes a unique set of four stamps, encompassing different themes, moods, and stories that are relevant to the Canadian public in some way. It is up to the designer to research, sketch, and execute their own theme while focusing on the keywords of story-telling, contemporary and “for Canada”. The stamps should reflect something that Canadians might like to learn about or see when they encounter/purchase these designs.
THE APPROACH
These contemporary stamps tell a story and are created “for Canada”. The theme showcased is art exhibitions or installations that have been exhibited across Canada since the pandemic began. The pandemic created a dark time in everybody’s life. The art industry took a hit during this time as did the public’s mental health. These pieces represent a means in which to enrich our lives while still encouraging safety and social distancing during Covid-19. It encourages the public to look up and learn more about the current art being exhibited in Canada. These art exhibits represent a message of hope, optimism, and healing through art. This communication goal establishes a bright, positive, and serene mood/ energy. Furthermore, the focal point and object of each art exhibition reinforces this.
COLOUR PALETTE & TYPOGRAPHY
THE FEATURED ART EXHIBITIONS
TITLE: Blue Heron | ARTIST: Alison Woodward
In Vancouver, the VMP holds annual mural festivals where artists can display their work throughout Vancouver. Alison Woodward and her murals on the blue heron was exhibited for VMFs 2020 Exhibition. It is inspired by the blue herons in Stanley Park and its lantern brings hopefulness and light in this pandemic. It is available for viewing in BC or online through VMF.
TITLE: Context is Everything | ARTIST: Monique Martin
In Saskatoon, Monique Martin designed an exhibition featuring paper dandelions titles “Context Is Everything.” There are over 3000 crafted around downtown and will be travelling to other cities/ provinces. According to Monique, “We’re all having to be dandelions right now: strong and resilient and persevere.”
TITLE: #YYCBlockParty | ARTIST: Promotion Artists Redefining Kulture
In Calgary, PARK (Promotion Artists Redefining Kulture) partnered with Deerfoot City, a 1.1 million square foot shopping center, to launch #YYCBlockParty, a 200 foot outdoor installation. It was created to inject some vibrancy into the city coming out of a tough period with the pandemic.
TITLE: Epitonium | ARTIST: Unknown
In Toronto, the distillery district is showcasing a giant seashell titled “Epitonium",” which symbolises how nature can serve as inspiration and shelter. The theme addressed in the piece is refuge and reflects the ongoing pandemic. In addition, it lights up in colour.
