What we did
The project
The Baldwin Prize is an annual essay competition that aims to promote self-expression through the written word and facilitate academic opportunities for students at Baltimore City College High School. Named after the writer and humanitarian James Baldwin, the Prize competition prompts City College students to reflect and explore how their inner lives connect with our shared humanity through their essays. Our challenge was to build a brand that would attract, inspire, and motivate students to engage with this opportunity, positioning the prize as a prestigious academic endeavor.
Building a brand to foster creative expression
We developed a compelling brand identity that resonated with a youthful audience while emphasizing the value of academic and personal growth through participation. This involved creating a culturally relevant visual presence that communicated the significance and benefits of the competition.
An homage to culture
The execution of the Baldwin Prize’s creative direction led to a powerful visual representation that captured the competition’s spirit. Inspired by James Baldwin, the design featured his portrait as a constellation, with each star showcasing quotes from student essays.
This concept was then adapted across various media, including digital channels and physical materials including cards and banners, establishing a consistent visual identity. These graphic assets became central to promoting the Baldwin Prize and continue to define its branding. Additionally, the poster has become a cherished gift for recurring donors, strengthening its value within the Baldwin Prize community.
Enabling student participation and academic advancement
Since its launch, the Baldwin Prize has successfully engaged a large number of students, providing them with a platform to express their ideas and compete for recognition and academic opportunities. The Prize has become synonymous with creativity and excellence in student expression, encouraging a higher level of participation each year.
