Concept:
In 2020, we partnered with National Geographic to create a series of limited-edition Black Lives Matter shirts, sold at select retail locations across the U.S. The design was inspired by the bold, graphic work of Reid Miles for Blue Note Records and the politically charged art of Emory Douglas. The result was a shirt that blended bright colors, unconventional shapes, and powerful typography, creating a design that was raw, energetic, and unapologetic—perfectly aligning with the Black Lives Matter movement.

Design:
The design was driven by typography alone, emphasizing that the message needed to speak for itself. Any additional visual elements felt unnecessary and forced, so we kept it stripped down to just the words. The dynamic typography, paired with bright colors and abstract forms, conveyed movement and urgency, echoing the energy of the Black Lives Matter movement. The use of unconventional shapes and raw design elements captured a sense of rebellion and empowerment, giving the shirt the authentic energy that is needed for a product tied to such a powerful cause.

Challenges:
The roll-out of the shirts was unfortunately derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and internal changes within National Geographic led to the project being sidelined. However, the design remains a meaningful part of our work, and we are proud to have contributed to a project that aimed to amplify such an important message during a critical moment in history.

The Vision:
While the project may have been cut short, the design still resonates today. It’s a bold, powerful piece of wearable art that encapsulates the energy and urgency of the Black Lives Matter movement. The shirt stands as a testament to the power of design in social movements, and we continue to be proud of our role in creating a visual expression of such an important cause.