Topolya is a Ukrainian folk band based in the UK. The name translates to Poplar, the type of trees that line the road to Tabir, where the band formed.
Logo Design
The initial direction focused on combining the Poplar tree shape with the Tryzub - the Ukrainian coat of arms. Experimenting with negative space and form, I broke out some watercolours for a more organic feel. This was accepted but did not translate well digitally, alongside differing opinions within the band we pivoted for a new direction.
A New Approach
It became clear that the tree was not working, so the focus shifted to clear typography. I designed in both English and Ukrainian, as the band was indecisive, and finally settled on the former. Special attention was paid to the "T", with custom terminals.
Digital Embroidery
Ukraine has a strong history of embroidery, with different regions developing their own patterns and identities. Once the type was settled, I focused on creating a 'Vyshivanka' pattern for each member.
I asked the band to send photos of their own vyshivanka shirts, a traditional shirt worn for performing and parties, and collated my own reference photos.
These patterns were then translated digitally in Illustrator, working closely with each member to ensure their square best represented them. Initially I used the pen tool to create long lines, but later approached them like pixel art, one square at a time. This is similar to how embroidery patterns are shared online today.
