Giardini Botanici Hanbury
An illustrated visual identity | Master degree research
The research explores the relationship between visual identity and illustration and, on a parallel axis, the field of cultural heritage communication. Giardini Botanici Hanbury (Ventimiglia, Liguria) are the object of an experimentation of the synthesis of these reflections. The result is an illustrated visual identity studio, to explore illustration's potential within a cultural heritage branding.
Excerpt from my Illustration Master research & project at Isia Urbino, with professor Beppe Chia
Located between Ventimiglia and Menton, the place has an exceptional micro-climate. For this reason, Thomas Hanbury found it the perfect place to host his vast botanical treasure, with hundreds of species collected in his expeditions all over the world. The 18 hectares of land already had a long history, dating back from the Romans. The botanical garden opens to the public in 1872 and became a reference worldwide.
After 70 years of wealthy activity, World War II caused huge damages and Giardini Botanici Hanbury were abandoned. In 1960 the Italian State take possession of the place and begins a phase of restoration. Today, University of Genova takes care of the botanical garden: with many efforts, the garden is now hosting 5800 botanical species – 6000 species were listed in 1912.
In this visual identity studio, the challenge was to work exclusively with analogue instruments, in a flexible system – yet with the aim of creating a unique and coherent ensemble. Therefore, a casual and unrefined handwriting plays an important role in the identity, and the logo has been retraced after historical signs on place.
