Image credit: Carter Skaggs, Cincinnati Enquirer

What is Paddlefest? 

Paddlefest is the nation’s largest annual paddling celebration with over 2,000 participants joining together every year to paddle down the Ohio River.

In collaboration with Kolar Design I designed the 2023 Paddlefest visual identity. This project was a great opportunity for me to gain experience with developing client relationships, managing a project team, and creative a cohesive visual identity.

Design Solution

Rooted in community and place, the Paddlefest team wanted to emphasize the core activites and values of the event - making sure to include lots of boats, nature, and local themes. 

I hand drew and vectorized over 40 icons during the creative process, ending up with a large gallery that was used for other assets at the event. The final design was printed on clothing, accessories, and large advertisement banners.

I attended the Paddlefest kick-off event in August 2023 and saw hundreds of people wearing t-shirts with my design - seeing my work in context is the biggest reward to me.











Designed in collaboration with Kolar Design & team. Special thanks to Audrey Eyman for the guidance during the design process.