‘Hidden Gems’
The idea: The goal of this project was to create postcards for places one may not have ever heard of - thus, “hidden gems”. In these postcards, I wanted to showcase the beauty and charm of these lesser known locations, whether it be through historical sites, nature, or popular activities there.
Challenges: As fully illustrated postcards, I had to stylize them in a way that was simple, straightforward and eye-catching, without oversimplifying the location it was representing. Because of this, I couldn’t rely on illustration alone - my choice of colors in each postcard, as well as the type treatment played a large role in creating the feel of each place.
Methods: Sketching, Adobe Illustrator
Duluth, Minnesota’s Aerial Lift Bridge
Omaha, Nebraska’s Desert Dome
The mountains and parasailing of Hood River, Oregon
The shores of Sandpoint, Idaho
The beach of my hometown, Norwalk Connecticut!
With each postcard being different in terms of colors and illustration, I wanted to maintain some consistency in other aspects of the design. I decided to maintain a consistent style of typography for each postcard, with simple, thick letters that could draw one’s attention, but wouldn’t take away from the illustration. Another element that appears in each postcard is gradients. I used gradients to add depth to the background, and to illustrate the comforting look of sunrise and sunsets in each postcard.
How it began
It all began with research. The first challenge was picking which places would be highlighted in this project. I read through numerous travel blogs, as well as reading maps and researching small cities I found on them. The locations I chose were places that stuck out to me as unique, and charming.
Trust the process.
The second part of my research was figuring out a defining element for each place to put in my design. For some postcards, it was obvious, such as a large historical landmark. For others, it was broader, and there had to be more of a focus on the overall environment of the location, rather than a specific part.
As someone who with a passion for geography and traveling, I believe there is beauty everywhere you go. I created this project as a way to showcase this belief. Through this postcards, I want to inspire others to think outside the box when traveling, and seek beauty in lesser-known places.