Welcome to Colorado
Project Overview
Client: base5280
Industry: Retail/Apparel
Timeline: 2018
Applications: Apparel, Art Prints, Environmental Graphics
Reimagining Colorado Pride
The Welcome to Colorful Colorado Iconoflage was born from a collaboration with Brian and Karla, the dynamic duo behind base5280 – a screen printing shop operated from their garage in Thornton, Colorado. With the 2019 Rocky Mountain Gift Show on the horizon, they sought a unique design that would stand out in the competitive Colorado merchandise market.
While the Colorado market was saturated with designs incorporating the state flag and generic outdoor icons, our vision was different. We aimed to create something that would resonate with anyone who had experienced Colorado, whether as a resident or visitor, without relying on the typical state flag imagery. The iconic "Welcome to Colorful Colorado" sign, greeting travelers at state borders, provided the perfect foundation for our story.
Mapping the Story
Exploring Every Corner
The research process leveraged both extensive local exploration and first-hand experience living in Colorado. The journey covered everything from the peaks of the Rockies to the urban energy of Denver, documenting the breweries, music venues, hiking trails, and historical landmarks that give the state its unique character.
Drawing from the iconic welcome signs as inspiration, the design evolved into a visual journey through Colorado's diverse landscape and culture. Each element was strategically placed to create moments of discovery, allowing viewers to find their own Colorado memories within the intricate details of the artwork.
Colorado on Full Display
The artwork celebrates Colorado's diversity through carefully chosen symbols and imagery. The mountains and urban landscapes represent the state's geographic variety, while references to outdoor activities capture the active lifestyle. Cultural touchpoints – from craft breweries to music venues – reflect the state's vibrant communities, and historical elements honor Colorado's rich heritage.
Bringing Colorado to Life
Primary Implementation
The artwork was initially created for apparel to be showcased at the Rocky Mountain Gift Show, offering a unique perspective on Colorado merchandise.
Extended Applications
While initially created for merchandise, the artwork naturally extends into travel applications, creating welcoming moments throughout the visitor journey. From airport corridors to train station walls, and welcome centers to hotel lobbies, the design offers versatile ways to greet travelers while celebrating the Colorado experience.
A Fresh Take on Local Love
“Scott really jumped in head first on this project. As natives, my wife and I had our own ideas of what we wanted to see, but Scott complemented us by offering a fresh perspective through his research. The design was very well received at both wholesale and retail shows. We had only planned on selling apparel, but had numerous requests for posters because people wanted it displayed where they could spend time discovering all the details. It really became a conversation piece.”
The Welcome to Colorful Colorado Iconoflage achieved its goal of offering something different in the Colorado merchandise market. Instead of relying on familiar symbols, it created deeper connections through authentic storytelling and attention to detail. Every time someone examines the piece, they discover new elements that remind them of their own Colorado experiences.
The design continues to resonate with both locals and visitors, proving that authentic storytelling can elevate merchandise beyond simple souvenirs to become meaningful keepsakes that celebrate shared experiences and state pride.
Ready to Tell Your Story?
Ready to transform your brand story into an engaging visual experience that connects with your audience? Let's discuss how Iconoflage can help you create memorable impressions that last.