publication
Urban Trash Transformation
Visual Identity & Multimedia Design for Urban Trash Transformation
As a designer, I led the creative development of the visual identity for Urban Trash Transformation—an interdisciplinary, socially engaged art project based in Dortmund’s vibrant Nordstadt district. Rooted in the local graffiti subculture and focused on sustainability, the project transforms urban waste into expressive, collaborative artworks through community workshops and public exhibitions.
My Role & Approach
I was responsible for the full spectrum of visual design, including:
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Logo design and branding system
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Posters, visuals, and facade banners
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Stage and spatial scenography
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AI-driven animations and artwork reconstructions
My design strategy was grounded in preserving the authenticity of the project’s urban and grassroots character, integrating found materials, textures, and colors from the actual workshops into the graphic language. The color scheme and tactile quality of upcycled materials—plastic sheets, garbage bags, old fabrics, and spray-stained objects—shaped the visual storytelling across all media.
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AI & Design Synergy
A key innovation in this project was my integration of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance both digital and analog processes:
I created AI-assisted motion designs and animations that mirrored the physical collage techniques used in the artworks.
I developed a streamlined workflow for digitally recreating analog pieces using machine learning tools, maintaining the original texture, material logic, and visual consistency.
This hybrid process allowed for a seamless blend of hand-crafted and digital aesthetics, reflecting the project’s core message: transformation through resourcefulness and creative reuse.
Impact
The final output was a cohesive and immersive visual experience that extended from street-level interventions to a professional gallery setting. This included:
Social media campaign assets
Branded workshop materials
Environmental projections and animated visuals for the exhibition at uzwei, accompanied by urban soundscapes and youth-created content