Alberta University of the Arts (AU Arts) provides both undergraduate and graduate programs in fine arts, design, media arts, and other creative mediums. Located in Calgary, Alberta, they have undergone significant transformations since being founded in 1926. Originally branching off from SAIT and becoming an independent college in the 1980s, it achieved university status in 2018. Today, AU Arts is recognized for its dynamic contributions to visual culture in Canada and worldwide.
We’ve had the pleasure of working with Alberta University of the Arts on numerous projects over the years, including temporary vinyl gallery graphics at the Illingworth Kerr Gallery. For this particular project, we had the opportunity once more to collaborate closely and breathe new life into their reception desk area. Our team produced welcome signage suspended above the desk, a wall-length vinyl mural, and vinyl decals featuring the AU Arts logo. Each element was carefully designed to reflect AU Arts’ branding and enhance the space.
PROJECT DISPLAY COMPONENTS
Vinyl Wall Mural
Welcome Sign
Au Arts Logo Decal
Vinyl Wall Mural
The mural graphics by Susan Zebedee features a black-and-white photo with a dotted pattern that creates a textured look. Detailed space renderings were produced to ensure seamless integration of the photo mural onto the wall. The layout was carefully planned with the reception desk and wooden pergola in mind, ensuring that the AU Arts logo is still visible from different angles.
As part of the printing process, multiple scaled-down test prints were done to verify colours and dot clarity, while checking for any warping after enlargement. Once our print department confirmed everything was on track, the mural was printed at full size on vinyl with a matte laminate that was directly applied to the wall. This method guarantees durability, making the print resistant to wear and tear. Our designers and installers skillfully navigated the transfer of the photo through the wooden pergola, extending it along the entire wall to make the most of the space.
Suspended Welcome Signs
An integral part of the front desk redesign is the welcome signs. Each letter was fabricated from acrylic using our CNC machine and painted in AU Arts’ exact red brand colour. The white information symbol was affixed to a circle in the same shade of red; all letters and symbols were securely mounted onto aluminum channels.
To suspend the signs above the desk, our installers utilized the wooden pergola as a foundation, integrating a rod suspension kit for support. Steel rods, powder-coated to prevent corrosion, are connected to the aluminum channels using support screws, ensuring sturdy attachment to the joist beam.
Au Arts Logo Decal
The AU Arts logo decal is prominently featured on the front of the reception desk on each side. Made from opaque vinyl, the logo showcases a custom design. The white letters were contour-cut for precision, while the red letters were die-cut using a standard template for consistency. To ensure durability and a polished finish, the vinyl print was coated with matte laminate.
This AU Arts revamp creates a welcoming and modern branded space that reflects their commitment to artistic excellence. We look forward to continuing our partnership with AU Arts to help showcase the creative work achieved within their institution!
Check out other projects we have worked with AU Arts on:
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