John Lewis Partnership – Cheltenham
Case study : Graphic design / Public Art Installation / Commercial Commission work
The John Lewis commission was for a series of eye catching, decorative and publicly engaging large illustrative panels to adorn the temporary hoardings protecting the new build store in central Cheltenham. From inception to commission, to print and installation, the turnaround was over a short time period of 4 weeks. The panels proved very successful, with John Lewis management moving them into their store windows once the temporary hoardings came down prior to opening, and then into permanent display in the staff corridors back stage.
The illustrations depict key messages from the John Lewis and Partners, interlinked with local references and relevant public information.
My challenge was to capture the John Lewis ethos and style, and to reinterpret that with an eye catching out of the ordinary twist incorporating my own drawing approach. My signature characters intermingle with product placements, text and full colour design. Each panel was conceived to stand alone but also to work in combination with a visual narrative and balance of composition and colour flowing from one to the next.
The panels needed to be show-stoppers. To draw the eye, inform, entertain and slow the public in their tracks. The John Lewis brand incorporates down to earth yet stylish quality. This is what I strove to embody in my work. That is:
Hand drawn illustration, retaining an honest craftsmanship notwithstanding the photoshop and printing process, to represent the human touch, professionalism, care and attention so important to the John Lewis in-store shopping experience.
The finished panels are approx. 2m x 2.5m. Inkjet print onto Dibond panels.
Dibond is a light, highly durable acrylic material. Perfect for printing and simple to install.
