Naomi Akikusa

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Finesse

Select Work 1/7

Project: Branding + Website
Client: Finesse
(2024)

Finesse, Australia's premiere women's sneaker destination, approached our studio Play On Play for a comprehensive rebrand and website refresh. Since their establishment in 2017, Finesse has grown into a leading retailer of exclusive women's sneakers, continually expanding their range and audience reach. To propel them into the future, we crafted a fresh logo, typography system, and colour palette that encapsulate Finesse's evolution and commitment to staying ahead of the curve. The minimalist approach exudes a high-end yet approachable aesthetic, resonating with diverse demographics. We also applied the same minimalist approach to their website, allowing for an engaging yet seamless customer experience. The revitalised brand identity seamlessly blends fashion and function, positioning Finesse as a trailblaser in the women's sneaker market.

Venus
Flytrap

Selected Work 2/7

Project: Album Art
Client: Feng Suave
(2022)

Album art for Feng Suave's 2022 release, "Venus Flytrap," designed through my studio, Play On Play. Inspired by the metaphorical concept of embracing one's true self, we aimed to capture this idea through a minimalist and modernist design approach. The hero colour, green, symbolises nature and growth, perfectly reflecting the album's themes. For the vinyl record sleeve, we chose a rich blue for the inner slip, representing a transformative metamorphosis. With this thoughtfully crafted artwork, we invite listeners to visually immerse themselves in the profound journey of "Venus Flytrap."

︎︎︎ Photography by Max D’Orsogna
︎︎︎ Designed through Play On Play Studio

Hermone

Selected Work 3/7

Project: Branding & UI design
Client: Hermone (EU)
(2022)

Branding and app design for Hermone, a Berlin-based hormone tracking app by Body Literacy Inc. The app's core mission is to empower and educate women* about their bodies for a more equal future. Designed through Play On Play, the branding is lively and inclusive. The brand colours draw inspiration from the four seasons to represent different stages of the female hormone cycle. The logo, featuring wave-like iconography resembling hormone charts, set the foundation for the visual identity seen throughout illustrations, app components, and the website. The app design prioritised education, ensuring a seamless and intuitive experience. The interface and illustrations complemented the brand, simplifying complex concepts.

Pringle
of Scotland

Selected Work 4/7

Project: Personal
Brand: Pringle of Scotland
(2016)

In 2016, I created a publication that celebrates the rich history of Pringle of Scotland, a brand with an astonishing legacy that spans over 200 years. Making Pringle the longest standing fashion brand to ever exist. The publication chronicles the brand's journey from its inception to the present day, showcasing its enduring appeal and ability to adapt to changing times. At the heart of the publication is Pringle's iconic Argyle sweaters and vests, which have become synonymous with the brand's timeless style and exquisite attention to detail.

Through carefully curated content, readers are taken on a journey through the brand's remarkable history, exploring its evolution and impact on fashion and culture. The publication itself reflects the high-end quality and luxurious aesthetic of the brand. The book is hand-bound featuring gold-foiled embossing on the cover that adds a touch of elegance. Transparent pages are interspersed throughout, aimed to create a visually stunning reading experience. My goal in creating this publication was to pay homage to the brand's incredible legacy and showcase its ability to remain relevant and innovative in a rapidly changing world.

︎︎︎ Photographed by Jasmina Zuccarelli

Spasta

Select Work 5/7

Project: Event Branding + Merchandise
Client: Adriana Lazaridis
(2022)

Event Branding and Merchandise for Adriana's SPASTA Extravaganza! This unforgettable day-to-night dance party seamlessly blended Mediterranean flair with electrifying energy. SPASTA, translating to 'Smash Plates,' became a central theme as guests enthusiastically embraced plate-smashing rituals. My branding captures the dynamic anticipation of the event, promising an experience that's as vibrant as the Mediterranean itself.

︎︎︎ Photography by Max D’Orsogna
︎︎︎ Shoot art directed through Play On Play

Breaking The Pixel Ceiling

Selected Work 6/7

Project: Melbourne Design Week
Purpose: Panel Discussion Event Art
(2023)

Event artwork created for Breaking The Pixel Ceiling, encapsulates the spirit and purpose of the event. This collaborative effort between Play On Play Studio and The Design Kids for Melbourne Design Week 2023 brought together an inspiring lineup of female and non-binary creatives to share their experiences and insights within the creative industries.

The cover image, captures the essence of the panel discussion in a fun and kitsch way. Drawing inspiration from the concept of the Old School Power Wom*n, popularised in the 80s, the artwork presents a powerful and influential figure reminiscent of the iconic Grace Jones. This portrayal symbolises the strength, confidence, and determination that these remarkable creatives embody as they break through barriers and challenge traditional norms.

To enhance the visual impact, we employed mixed media to create a vibrant and dynamic composition. The use of heavenly-like plnths supporting the central figure represents breaking free from traditional norms and expectations. These elements also reflect the theme of the event, Breaking The Pixel Ceiling, by symbolising the breaking down of barriers and embracing creativity. The central figure, adorned in a bold, structured suit with exaggerated shoulder pads, exudes an aura of authority and professionalism. Striding through the clouds, she represents the triumph over challenges faced in the creative industries.

Event Art

Select Work 7/7

Project: Freelance
Client: Adriana Lazaridis
(2020-23)

A vibrant collection of event socials created for the incredible Adriana, also known as Opalakia on PBS Radio. Adriana is the dream client who grants me the freedom to let my creativity roam without limits. The results are a delightful fusion of playfulness and vivid colours, mirroring Adriana's infectious energy that never fails to inspire.