The ways in which plant life communicates, grows, feeds, mobilises, and reproduces are remarkably sophisticated - often reflecting processes and systems we see mirrored in our contemporary, technology-driven lives. Botanical Mechanics was a large-scale, multidisciplinary project that brought together artists, scientists, and creative practitioners to explore these intersections. Through diverse works and perspectives, the exhibition invited audiences to consider how we might better understand, collaborate with, and learn from the natural world.
The original poster for the event
Installation view of Botanical Mechanics featuring work from Thomas Chung
As designer and curator, I sought to create a cohesive visual identity that could unify the exhibition’s diverse range of artistic and scientific contributions while remaining adaptable to different mediums and contexts. My approach was to design a branding system that felt both contemporary and timeless, drawing on the visual language of museum exhibitions and botanical archives to establish a refined and structured aesthetic.
Typography played a key role in achieving this. I selected a classic serif typeface reminiscent of those used in traditional botanical museum displays, evoking a sense of scholarly authority while maintaining a connection to natural history. This was balanced with a simple and modern layout to ensure the branding felt accessible and relevant to a contemporary audience.
Printed program layout design
Close up of the exhibition logo
For the logo, I drew inspiration from the botanical illustrations commonly found on signage in museums and public gardens. These detailed scientific drawings serve as both decorative and educational tools, making them a fitting reference for the exhibition’s themes. The final logo, based on Irish Moss, subtly reinforced the exhibition’s core ideas of organic growth and interconnected systems.
To maintain visual cohesion without overwhelming the artworks or the exhibition space, I opted for a monochromatic colour palette. This decision was twofold: first, to complement rather than compete with the wide variety of artworks and the character-rich venue; second, to align with ArtMonth 2019’s pared-back visual identity, ensuring a seamless presence within the broader festival context.
Botanical Mechanics Art Month event page
This branding system was implemented across both online and print promotional materials, providing a clear and elegant framework that allowed the exhibition’s diverse contributions to shine. By establishing a balance between structure and flexibility, the Botanical Mechanics identity successfully created a unified experience for audiences engaging with the project in different spaces and formats.
For more details on this project, visit: https://gracekingston.com/portfolio/botanical-mechanics-zero-gravity-gallery/
Installation view featuring work from Liron Gilmore, Herbert Peppard and Minty Moss
Exhibition installation from Christy Torrington
