Whitby Goth Weekend

Event Identity, Branding, Motion

Whitby Goth Weekend is a conceptual project focused on reimagining Whitby Goth Weekend into a fully branded event visual identity and advertising. The goal was to attract new visitors and infuse the event with a fresh, dynamic energy.

A key element of the branding draws inspiration from Whitby’s historical connection to Bram Stoker’s Dracula and the striking architecture of Whitby Abbey. These influences played a central role in shaping the design and visual direction of the event identity.

Building on this foundation, I re-crafted and expanded a blackletter font into a cohesive visual identity. This approach highlights the font's intricate shapes, presenting them in a way that feels both modern and respectful of it's traditional roots. By blending historical references with contemporary design, the event identity captures Whitby’s gothic charm and atmospheric allure, creating a distinctive and memorable visual experience that appeals to a wider audience.

The tone of voice was inspired by Bram Stoker’s Dracula, paying homage to the iconic gothic novel while serving as an effective strategy to promote the event. To reinforce this connection, I incorporated language and themes reminiscent of the book’s dark, atmospheric style. The colour palette was intentionally kept traditional to evoke a sense of familiarity and intrigue, drawing in the audience with it's timeless appeal.

As a passionate advocate for print, I developed a series of event package materials that brought my visual identity to life. To create a gothic and captivating allure, I utilised black-on-black spot UV printing on textured paper, adding depth and tactile intrigue. The design drew inspiration from Dracula, reflected in unique details like a coffin-shaped event program and fang-shaped drink vouchers and tickets. This mock-up demonstrates the versatility of the event identity, showcasing how it can extend beyond digital formats to create a more immersive and memorable physical experience.

To further develop and amplify the event identity, I extended it's application across various touchpoints that attendees would encounter. This included T-shirts featuring playful tone-of-voice puns and staff lanyards, all designed to reinforce the brand’s personality. Conceptually, I reimagined the event's wayfinding signage as gravestones, drawing inspiration from Whitby Abbey and its surrounding graveyard. These design elements were derived from the blackletter font, using the serif's and existing letters as inslillations ensuring a cohesive and visually striking connection throughout the event’s branding.