Reflections of Culture:
Billboard Design for the Studio Museum in Harlem
Tasked with creating two billboard advertisements for a course project, I chose to highlight the long-awaited reopening of the Studio Museum in Harlem, an institution that has profoundly shaped the landscape of Black art and culture. The challenge was to design visuals that not only celebrated the museum’s return but also reflected Harlem’s creative spirit and historical significance.
My design process began with research — studying the museum’s legacy, its architectural redesign by Adjaye Associates, and its role as a hub for emerging Black artists. I collected reference imagery from Harlem’s streets, signage, and community murals to capture a sense of place and authenticity. From there, I developed five layout explorations that balanced bold typography, vibrant color contrasts, and dynamic composition to evoke movement, pride, and cultural continuity.
Using a modular grid system, I experimented with layering textures, photography, and geometric forms to echo the rhythm of Harlem’s urban landscape. Each billboard was designed to feel alive — something that would both command attention in public space and invite reflection on the museum’s renewed presence.
Ultimately, the project became a celebration of art’s ability to reclaim and redefine space. These billboards express not only the Studio Museum’s rebirth but also the enduring power of design to connect community, culture, and place.