V.H.S
Instructions
Do and Discuss one of the following:
- Design a Brand Identity Storytelling Kit: Select a local business or create a fictional brand with a strong mission (for example, an eco-friendly café or a neighborhood bookstore). Develop a mini visual identity and storytelling plan for this brand. Start by defining the brand’s core values and story in a few sentences. Then, design (sketch or describe) the key visual elements: the logo, a color scheme, and one example of imagery that fits the story (like a mock advertisement or social media post). Ensure each element reflects the narrative – e.g. if the story is “bringing the community together,” perhaps the logo incorporates a circle of people or a homey symbol, and the photos feature real community gatherings. Write a short rationale (200 words) explaining how your design choices (logo icon, colors, style) convey the brand’s story and emotional tone. This exercise will help you practice uniting visuals with narrative meaning.
- Campaign Story Arc Planning: Choose a cause or product you are passionate about and outline a campaign that uses the Launch–Build–Sustain–Reflect framework. Identify the campaign’s goal (e.g., to promote a new app or to raise awareness for animal adoption). Write down ideas for each phase of the campaign:
- Launch: Describe what the inciting incident or teaser will be – perhaps a striking poster, a viral hashtag, or a kickoff event – and what story angle it introduces.
- Build: Outline 2–3 follow-up content pieces or events that add to the narrative. How will you keep people curious and engaged? (For instance, short videos revealing more about the story, or testimonials that escalate the emotional involvement.)
- Sustain: Propose an interactive element or community engagement (like a challenge, contest, or Q&A) to maintain momentum. How will you encourage your audience to participate in the story?
- Reflect: Plan the climax (maybe a finale event, big reveal, or deadline) and how you’ll conclude. What final call-to-action will you give, and how will you show the outcome or impact to your audience?
Content
VHS. Voyage, Horizon, Search. My imaginary company that I made for this exercise is all about discovery. For me this company was to make the wonders of the sea come to you from just a click away. While not only building your love for the ocean by booking trips with us, you can also learn to love the ocean even more by earning a boaters identification card, and not only learning how to operate boats, but also learn how to sail, learn currents, read winds.
it was more about building a whole world. I cooked up this brand to throw yourself out there into the open sea, not just to sail for the fun of it, but to really experience the ocean like it's got something to teach you something.
The visual world behind this brand came together with three simple anchors, and each one ties directly into what this company is about:
-
The Lighthouse – more than just a symbol, this represents the guidance that V.H.S. provides. From beginner sailors learning the ropes to seasoned adventurers seeking new waters, this company acts as a steady light. You’re not just booking a trip, you’re entering a mentorship.
-
The Phrase: “The Ocean Whispers” – this one captures the deeper pull of the brand. V.H.S. isn’t selling tours, it’s inviting you to listen, to learn, and to explore with intention. The company’s whole approach is rooted in that quiet sense of discovery. Sailing becomes more than a skill; it’s an awakening.
-
The X Mark & Boat Vector – this brings it all back to adventure. With V.H.S., you're not following a set path —you’re making your own. Whether you’re earning your license, joining a rare expedition, or just learning how to read the wind, every moment feels like a discovery.
Together, these visuals and ideas help paint what V.H.S. really stands for: exploration with purpose, learning with wonder, and journeying with heart.
But to close out this exercise, I wanted to say I take a lot of inspiration from Vanisher, Horizon Scraper. A masterpiece of a Music Visual Album, which ties a lot to the story of VHS. It was a blast to create something like this, and I will for sure be making more.
Comments
Post a Comment