For the past eight years Hudson Valley Graphic Design has partnered with the not for profit organization Harry Chapin Memorial Run Against Hunger committee, to brand the race event and design the promotional graphics and t-shirts worn by participants on race day. People wonder how we come up with a new design each year. The answer is that our inspiration is endless.
The event graphics theme is determined by the committee early in the season, months before the actual race. This year we focused on Harry Chapin’s legacy and his story. We wanted to somehow work the actual story into the design, which can be a challenge to communicate on such a small area.
Harry Chapin’s life is very inspiring. He had a goal, to end world hunger in his lifetime. He was proactive about his dream by taking action and doing something about it. He raised and donated millions of dollars by performing throughout his career. Although Harry’s life was tragically cut short in July of 1981, the seeds he planted had sprouted. He greatly encouraged his fans to get involved and make a difference.
In reaction to his passing that very year the town of Croton-on-Hudson decided to “do something” by organizing the very first Harry Chapin Memorial Run Against Hunger. As a result, of this non-for-profit event the Croton-Cortland Food Pantry was born, helping thousands of people.
Harry was more than just a musician. He took his platform to reach out to people as a way to do good. We were inspired by Harry’s dream to make our designs something that truly represents the run. Our designs tell the story. The story of Harry and his goal, but also those involved in the race. People like Sammy Colombo, whose devotion to the race knows no bounds.
This year’s graphics (left), appropriately labeled the “Woodstock Design”, uses a trending hand-drawn approach, depicting a tree of information and includes the story of the race as it’s backdrop, with Harry Chapin placed front and center as the solid foundation of the event.
The run is only as successful as those who get involved each year. We used the event graphics and t-shirt design to highlight the people and the community to continue to inspire for years to come.
As each year goes by and another successful run is completed our source of inspiration continues to grow. We continue to learn more about Harry and his aspirations for love, peace and joy. We continue to be inspired by those who get involved. There is nothing like people getting involved for the same goal.
Designing the event’s graphics is our way of “doing something.”
Do you like this year’s design? We know it breaks the rules and is quite different from previous year’s…but that’s the fun of it! Let us hear your thoughts!