AVIAN CALENDAR

NEW YEAR, NEW STYLE

The Avian Calendar is a seasonal calendar based on the folklore and migration patterns of the selected birds. Moon phase icons replace the day in which they appear.

The design direction was inspired by both illustrated world maps and the radial design of moon-phase graphics. The circular design harkens back to imagery of a nest, with each illustrated bird resting in the center.

The 2024 edition features a new art style, showcasing clean, expressive linework and tapered ombres.

SERVICES:

Communication Design. Illustration.

2021 AVIAN CALENDAR

I decided to revisit one of my favorite projects, the Avian Calendar. It is a favorite of my family, and they requested an updated version of it for 2024. I took this opportunity to correct some errors with the calendar. The low contrast in the spring calendar is difficult to read, the convention in which the moon phase replaces a date is inconsistent, some calendars aren’t properly centered, and there is a lot of negative space that could be better utilized. Additionally, I wanted the colors of each calendar to harmonize together.

PALETTE

The 2024 calendar has a completely renewed identity, beginning with the color palette. This palette features bold, harmonious hues, with each color being suited as both a primary color and accent color. Color is applied with this system: The accent color of the previous month is the primary color of the current month. The base color of the following month is the accent color of the current month. With this system, the colors of each month seamlessly flow.

TYPEFACE

The typeface Lemon Milk has fittingly been replaced with Lemon, a variable width sans-serif typeface. This typeface provides a clean, modern feel to the design, with the added benefit of being a narrow typeface. This allows for the numbers to be larger, increasing legibility and filling some of the negative space.

TIGHT SKETCHES

The tight sketch phase was essential to verify that all of the proposed changes would improve the design and blend together. This is also the stage where the birds received their new art style and positioning. Spring and Fall received additional type to explain the birds’ biannual migration habits during these seasons.

SPRING

The Spring Calendar features the crane, a bird associated with rebirth. The palette is lighter and refreshing to usher in positive emotions during these starting months. The personal goals in spring are focused on long term growth. This allows for the entire year to be utilized pursuing these goals.

SUMMER

The Summer Calendar features the Mallard, a bird associated with adventure. The palette is brazen, reflective of renewed vigor and the intensity of heat. These goals are focused on expanding one’s horizons and breaking out of their comfort zone. It is a time for self exploration.

FALL

The Fall Calendar features a swan, a bird associated with tranquility. This calmer palette compliments Spring, and sets a reserved tone. This month’s goals are relaxing, and meant to help you recharge after an eventful summer. These activities are crafted to be done alone or with someone you love.

WINTER

The Winter Calendar features the Heron, a bird associated with resolve. The colors and cool yet bold. It’s time to finish strong on the yearly goals and new interests undertaken during the summer. Additionally, there are goals meant to get you outside for longer periods of time. Making preparations to brave the elements can give one a tremendous sense of agency, and makes the warmer months even more enjoyable. At the end of the month, there is time to reflect on the progress you’ve made.

FINAL + CLOSING THOUGHTS

The 2024 calendar has became of favorite of many. It is also differentiated to the point that there is still much love for the 2021 calendar. Given how different the style of the two are, I think it would be valuable to make a 2024 calendar with the 2021 art direction. This will likely be an imminent project.