Lights, Camera, Key Art!
When the National Film Board of Canada reached out, they had a challenge: create compelling key art for independent documentaries. I had the privilege of working alongside some incredibly talented directors, catching sneak peeks at director’s cuts before they hit the screen. Talk about fun!
From Screen to Sketchbook
My mission? To translate each film into key visuals, including film posters, cross-channel promotional materials, and visuals for film festival competitions. After the marketing team briefed me, I dove deep into the films, watching them over and over, hunting for those defining moments that would inspire the visuals.
Director Chats:
Getting Into Their World
These films are personal labors of love for the directors, so getting the visual articulation just right was crucial. I spent hours chatting with each of them, stepping into their shoes to truly understand the heart of their stories. Sketches started to fill the page as I aimed to capture their vision in a single, powerful image.
More Than Aesthetic:
Art with a Purpose
The key art isn’t just about looking good—it’s about grabbing attention and conveying the essence of the film. While one visual can’t tell the whole story, it should hint at the heart of it, making people stop, look, and feel intrigued. In a sense, it’s both art and advertising, all in one.
