PublicationThe brief was to create a type-led visual identity for Forbidden Territories: 100 Years of Surreal Landscapes, a mock exhibition at The Hepworth Wakefield celebrating a century of surrealism. The designs needed to capture the dreamlike and fantastical essence of surrealism while remaining adaptable across print, digital, and environmental media.



These designs respond to the brief by using type as image to convey the fluidity and organic forms seen in surrealist art. Inspired by Desmond Morris’s surrealist works and Eileen Agar’s bold color palettes, the typography is dynamic and playful, reflecting the movement’s fusion of the unconscious and the fantastical. To counterbalance the harsh architectural appearance of The Hepworth Wakefield, the identity adopts a softer, more inviting aesthetic with flowing forms and vibrant colors.



The final outcomes are visually engaging and easily digestible for a wide audience. By incorporating surrealist elements without overwhelming complexity, the identity successfully communicates the themes of Forbidden Territories. Adaptable across billboards, posters, and social media, the designs meet the requirements of the brief while creating a cohesive and contemporary representation of surrealism.


My design process focused on balancing visual and conceptual elements, ensuring every decision was justified and tied to the designers’ styles. Gradients, bold typography, and high saturation were used to channel Wale’s energetic and expressive aesthetic, while grain, texture, and geometric patterns reflected Alex’s more structured and tactile approach. Careful attention was given to legibility and typesetting, with layouts influenced by Alex’s typographic style. This blend allowed me to honor both designers without directly mimicking them, instead creating a fusion that communicates their influence and celebrates music.



The chosen format - poster zines - was deliberately selected for its relevance to the subject matter. Posters are integral to both designers' practices, with Alex specialising in event posters and Wale producing merchandise posters for music artists and festivals. This choice ensured the outcomes were not only visually impactful but also contextually appropriate.





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