The task of designing new merchandise for the Saint Louis Zoo involved research and close observation of the Zoo’s unique features and charms. The driving force for this project was to create designs that were specific and wearable, with special consideration for the Zoo’s animals as individuals, as well as its dual role as an educational insitution and social gathering place.
As a free-access institution located within the city’s historic Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo is a long-standing pillar of the surrounding community. When the Zoo approached Paradowski Creative with plans to refresh their merchandise and apparel, it was important to take into account the goals and responsibilities that the organization holds in relation to its animals, its patrons, and its community, and to reflect these values in its new products.
During this project, several designs were presented by myself and fellow Art Director Interns for both evergreen merchandise, as well as merchandise specific to the events hosted by the Zoo throughout the year.
With a significant number of the Zoo’s patrons being children and parents, creating merchandise that is both educational and eye-catching was a fun and challenging element of this project. The Zoo Friends merchandise line is inspired by the real-world symbiotic relationships that can be seen throughout the different habitats, and encourages children to seek out new friends (of any species!) during their visit.
Leaning into the Zoo’s educational programming, the Species Guide tote bags are for the Zoo fans who love to learn and to flex their taxonomic knowledge. Inspired by vintage biological diagrams, these designs highlight certain species categories that you may encounter during your visit, accompanied by both their common and scientific names.
Local visitors know that there is more to the Saint Louis Zoo than just its animals. Throughout the year, the Zoo hosts several seasonal events for visitors of all ages, and these designs were created to highlight its October celebrations. For the nighttime Halloween event Boo at the Zoo, the designs hint at the several nocturnal animals that are active during the festivities, and the Zootoberfest design puts a new twist on a classic Oktoberfest staple.
