BBDW'23
A bold, organic identity inspired by microscopic marine life to represent Bilbao’s vibrant design ecosystem
Client
Bilbao City Council
Services
Brand Identity
Bilbao Bizkaia Design Week 2023 explored the theme “eco-sistema > artikulazioa”, focusing on the connections and collaborations that shape the city’s creative sector. While working at Crisis Design Studio, I developed the full visual identity and graphic concept for the event, commissioned by Bilbao Ekintza (Bilbao City Council).
The idea of an evolving, interconnected ecosystem took visual form through the metaphor of diatoms — microscopic marine organisms that are essential to life in the ocean. These organisms inspired a graphic system based on geometric shapes, glowing colors, and fluid compositions, representing the diversity and dynamism of the local design scene.
The identity extended across posters, outdoor advertising, digital assets, animations, social media templates, and promotional materials, giving BBDW 2023 a unified yet expressive visual language.
✹ Project developed at Crisis Design Studio.
✹ Photography: Crisis Design Studio
✹ Website: Bikuma
✹ Communication: Estudio Ainara Ipiña
✹ Commissioner: Colaborabora
OUTCOME
The result was a striking, highly recognizable identity that brought the concept of a living design ecosystem to life — one that evolves through collaboration, just like the diatoms that inspired it. The campaign stood out in the city and across digital platforms, becoming a memorable visual anchor for the event.
