Generative TouchDesigner Trumpet Graphics Anchor Montreal Jazz Festival Identity Concept
A self-directed visual identity for the Montreal Jazz Festival transforms live sound into visual representations through node-based networks in TouchDesigner. The sound waves are illustrated as concentric rings emanating from a trumpet's bell, appearing on various festival elements such as outdoor banners, staff passes, transit advertisements, and deck chairs, thus creating distinctive touchpoints. The typography features a tall, condensed style reminiscent of guitar strings, complemented by hand-drawn lettering that introduces an element of improvisation. Through archival research spanning fifty years of festival posters, the designer noted a consistent use of vibrant, expressive colors, which have been integrated into a modular system for modern application, including printed guides, silk-screened keychains, and woven wristbands to enhance the festival's identity.
Key facts
- The concept is a self-initiated project, not an official Montreal Jazz Festival commission
- Graphics are generated through node-based networks in TouchDesigner
- Sound waves render as concentric rings echoing a trumpet's brass bell
- The system produces infinite variations so no two touchpoints are identical
- A tall condensed display face tilts at an aggressive angle with stems mimicking guitar strings
- A calm grotesque handles dense lineup schedules and stage times
- Hand-drawn lettering scales up, ducks behind photography and breaks out of margins
- The designer reviewed fifty years of festival posters before starting
- Applications include outdoor building banners, staff credentials, transit posters and canvas deck chairs
- Collateral includes folded printed guides, silk-screened enamel keychains and woven wristbands
Entities
Institutions
- Montreal Jazz Festival
- TouchDesigner
- Abduzeedo
Locations
- Montreal
- Canada