Preserving the stories of the African and Caribbean communities in the South Coast
Branding, website and promotion for a brand new cultural archive
We partnered with Black Archives South to commemorate and celebrate the African and Caribbean contributions to life in Hampshire and along the South Coast of England. Launched in 2023, the project aimed to create a permanent and meaningful archive of stories, artefacts and literature that reflect the long-standing presence and influence of Black communities in the region.
Our role was to develop a brand that honoured this rich history while engaging a broad and diverse audience. Black Archives South needed to stand out as a cultural landmark, encouraging pride, reflection and connection. This required a full visual identity, digital platform and promotional approach that would feel modern, respectful and accessible
Authenticity was crucial for the brand, emphasizing the importance of African and Caribbean heritage and its impact on local and national history. Black Archives South was created to provide a central hub for collected stories, artifacts, and literature, celebrating the resilience, optimism, and spirituality of Black communities in Hampshire and the South Coast.
The strategy, combined with the visual elements, works towards communicating the core values and mission of the archive to its audience, ensuring a lasting and meaningful connection with the community.
The visual concept was grounded in three core themes: origins, journeys and heritage. These were expressed through African and Caribbean symbolism, which informed the structure and detail of the logo. The result is a mark that feels bold, purposeful and rooted in cultural identity.
A vibrant colour palette, inspired by African and Caribbean landscapes, brings a sense of life, energy and discovery to the brand. These visual elements work together to create a distinctive and memorable identity for Black Archives South.
The finished identity provides a strong foundation for all communication, from print materials to public events and outreach. It ensures consistency across touchpoints while reflecting the archive’s values and mission with clarity.
The visual language is confident and respectful, helping the brand connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
The website was designed to house a growing archive of photos, films, audio and written resources. It needed to be intuitive, responsive and fully accessible, making it easy for users to browse, learn and engage.
Given the scope of the project, the digital platform plays a key role in public engagement. It acts as a living resource, unified with the wider brand identity, supporting the archive’s long-term goal of preserving and promoting the region’s Black history.
