Obon
Weekend
Morikami's largest annual event, drawing 6,000+ attendees. Guests honor ancestors through garden lantern ceremonies, taiko drumming, and traditional Bon dance -- a celebration that is equally joyful and deeply personal.
The Brief
The identity needed to hold reverence and joy at once, welcoming a diverse multi-generational audience including many encountering Obon traditions for the first time.
The Approach
The identity is rooted in the spirit of Obon itself -- a celebration of loved ones who have passed, grounded in Japanese tradition and ritual. The system was built to feel like a warm invitation: welcoming to first-time visitors while honoring the cultural depth of the observance. A bold wordmark paired with a loose script treatment mirrors that balance -- significant and warm at the same time. The identity has been maintained and evolved consistently year over year, building recognition across every annual iteration.
Role
Lead Designer — brand identity, annual brand stewardship, social and digital graphics, print collateral, event signage, and wayfinding.