Elevating MaRS Branding and Design
Published
Project Information
The MaRS Discovery District is a global leader in fostering innovation and collaboration, hosting events that bring together visionaries and disruptors from diverse industries. I had the privilege of designing motion graphics and event assets to elevate MaRS’ branding, crafting visuals that amplified their message of innovation and progress. Innovative solutions crafted with The Workhouse.
Role
- Motion Design
- Presentation
Timeline
- Events from 2023–2024
Team
Skills
- Miro
- Figma
- FigJam
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe After Effects
- Blender
- FFMPEG
MaRS Campaign Cover Video for Climate Impact 2024
Background
MaRS Discovery District hosts a range of events (Impact AI, Climate Impact, Impact Health, and more) centred on cutting-edge technology, research, and entrepreneurial advancement. Their branding needed to resonate with their forward-thinking ethos while captivating their audience. My goal was to create motion designs and assets that not only aligned with MaRS’ brand identity but also added energy and sophistication to their events.
MaRS Event Campaign Examples
For each campaign, we created event-specific introductory animations. For the 2024 MaRS Health Impact animation, with the help of the client, we highlighted digital health (AI-enabled systems, VR Therapy), MedTech (Neurotechnology, Cardiovascular Technology), and Biotech (“Lab in th Cloud”, Cell Therapies).
In addition to digital applications, we created a number of print applications such as wayfinding, posters, event badges, table signage and more.
MaRS Portraits of Innovation Series at Billy Bishop
Process
Every project begins with understanding the client’s goals, audience, and brand identity to ensure the designs resonate effectively. Storyboarding and prototyping play a key role in visualizing ideas, allowing for refinement before full-scale production. Using tools like Adobe After Effects, InDesign, and Photoshop, I crafted dynamic animations that emphasized clarity, impact, and cohesion with the brand. Throughout the process, I tested and adapted the designs to ensure they perform seamlessly across various platforms and formats, delivering assets that are both visually striking and strategically aligned.
Cleantech Trends Report
To support MaRS in extending their brand, we also produced a number of reports for them. For “The state of Canadian climate innovation” report, a large about of infographics were crafted as well as embracing a clean, minimalist photographic direction.
EDC and IEC Reports
Although templated, the EDC reports allowed for innovative maps and charts to draw visual interest.
The last type of report were the IEC reports where a black and red visual language was introduced to differentiate it visually but retain synergy with the MaRS brand.
Final Design & Impact
The final designs featured bold, energetic animations that communicated the spirit of innovation. The assets were utilized across various touchpoints, including on-site screens, livestreams, and digital marketing campaigns. The motion graphics significantly enhanced audience engagement, with event feedback highlighting the designs as a standout feature.
Solve For X Podcast Art
While working with MaRS, we were tasked with designing consistent, yet dynamic, cover art and promotional assets for the Solve for X podcast.
Takeaways
These projects emphasized the importance of synergy between design and brand storytelling. By aligning motion design with MaRS’ values, I learned how to create impactful visuals that not only catch attention but also reinforce a brand’s message. These experiences reinforced my skills in crafting designs that are both visually compelling and strategically sound.