Brand Identity Commission: Artisans Beyond Borders
About:
Artisans Beyond Borders is a Tucson-based organization dedicated to supporting asylum seekers through the preservation of their traditional artisan crafts. The organization works with artisans who create embroidered cloths—historically used for food wrapping and passed down through generations—featuring meaningful mantras. The scope of work included the design of the logo, tie tags, thank you cards, and an email template to effectively represent the organization's cultural richness and heartfelt mission.
Client Needs & Objectives:
Artisans Beyond Borders required a visual identity that would honor the cultural heritage of the artisans and clearly communicate the meaningful purpose behind their craft to a broader audience. Key objectives included creating a brand presence that respectfully reflects the tradition and artistry of the embroidered cloths, captures the essence of the meaningful mantras, and conveys the intergenerational significance of the craft.
Design Solution & Approach:
The design process involved a collaborative approach with the Artisans Beyond Borders community to develop an authentic visual identity system. Key deliverables included:
Logo Design: A logo that visually embodies both the artisan craft and the organization's mission of support and connection, incorporating symbols and motifs that resonate with the cultural heritage of the artisans.
Tie Tag Design: Informative and aesthetically appropriate tie tags to accompany the embroidered cloths, providing context about their cultural significance and the artisans' stories.
Thank You Card Design: Heartfelt thank you cards that express gratitude to supporters while reinforcing the brand's mission and the impact of their contribution.
Email Template Design: A consistent and professional email template to effectively communicate the organization's activities and impact while maintaining the established visual identity.
Throughout the project, careful consideration was given to ensuring all design elements respectfully and authentically represented the cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the artisans. The owner wanted the design to feel raw and natural which I incorporated by researching and choosing recycled paper options for their prints.
Project Outcome & Value:
The resulting brand identity aims to enhance Artisans Beyond Borders' ability to connect with supporters and raise awareness for their mission. This design commission provided the organization with:
A visual identity that effectively communicates the cultural significance and artistic value of the traditional crafts.
A cohesive brand aesthetic that reflects the heartfelt mission of the non-profit organization.
Tangible and digital materials that strengthen engagement with their supporter base.
A visual representation that honors the heritage and stories of the individuals the organization serves.
This brand identity commission for Artisans Beyond Borders demonstrates how thoughtful and culturally sensitive design can contribute to the success and impact of organizations supporting artisan communities.