Mosaic Illustration for the City of Edmonton

“The project is complex and full of vitality and clever visual images that capture the vibrant city. I came back to see this several times and have been thinking about the project since I first saw it. The possibilities to use the image in all media and for a variety of purposes are enormous. This one will live rent-free in my mind for some time.” 

• Graphic Designer: Drury Stratiy
• Creative Manager: Ray Au

The Mosaic illustration is an expression of life and living in Edmonton. Its design has been influenced by the city’s architecture, all-season climate and natural environment. It features plants and animals native to the river valley which weaves through the heart of the city. The style is inspired by the flattened, derived aesthetics of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics and traditional Japanese woodcut prints. The vector-based system is aligned through a 15-degree isometric grid which allows for the mixing in of objects with an oblique perspective. The artwork has been utilized across a range of touchpoints, from large-scale public campaigns and high-level reports to key digital spaces. Beyond digital and strategic platforms, the system’s flexibility allows it to be adapted for specific program areas and converted into tangible promotional materials. This Illustration system continues to grow, creating visual consistency with a touch of whimsy to communications at the City of Edmonton.