Overview
This project was a submission for a merchandise design competition for Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, NY. The goal was to create a cohesive set of collectible badges that celebrate the cemetery’s dual identity as both a National Historic Landmark and a vibrant center for urban nature.
Tools
Adobe Illustrator
The Challenge
Green-Wood is more than just a cemetery; it is an arboretum and a sanctuary for wildlife. The challenge was to move away from "spooky" clichés and instead highlight the specific, beloved icons that locals and visitors associate with the park. I needed to create a visual style that felt both historic and contemporary.
The Solution
I developed a series of three badges using a digital stained-glass illustration style. This technique pays homage to the Victorian-era craftsmanship found throughout the grounds while allowing for vibrant, modern colors.
The collection features three specific local legends:
The Bear Tomb: Inspired by the famous monument for artist William Holbrook Beard, representing the cemetery's rich sculptural history.
The Monk Parakeets: Celebrating the famous colony of wild green parrots that have lived in the cemetery's entrance spires for decades.
The Fungi: Highlighting the cemetery's role as a site for scientific study and its incredible biodiversity.
The Results
The final designs include the cemetery’s founding year, 1838, and a custom-wrapped border to create a "souvenir" feel. The result is a set of versatile assets suitable for enamel pins, patches, or stickers that appeal to history buffs and nature lovers alike.