Evansville Otters
brand identity + uniforms + social media graphics + business cards
A collaboration with Matt Wagner (creative direction) and Lauren Staser (lettering & illustration)
Baseball is the American pastime. A sport so embedded with history, culture and American-spirit that it commands a unique reverence. Evansville holds a special part in that history, too: the third-oldest ballpark in the country and home to America’s ballgame for over a century. The Evansville Otters were established in 1995 and were in need of a fresh brand to kick off their 25th season. When we set out to develop a new brand for the Evansville Otters, it was without question that it would respectfully honor the magic of Bosse Field – both past and present.
The new Evansville Otters’ brand communicates the values that are important to the organization: providing affordable, safe fun for every demographic and remaining the “heart and soul of the community.”
The logo and uniforms introduce a contemporary, custom script by Lauren Staser that pays homage to baseball’s classic typeface. Dynamic, heavy weight letterforms are balanced by tails that mimic that of an otter – a playful nod to the well-loved mascot. The new script is contrasted by a heavy serif, much like those used on classic advertisements and scorecards. Together, the duo is a perfect balance of history and fun.
The new mascot by Lauren Staser challenges the tradition of intimidating team characters. He dons a serious game face, but soft curves and a 2-dimensional style make him friendly and fun, in the true spirit of an otter.
The fresh palette of primary colors balances baseball tradition, Evansville heritage and fun in a bold way.
The uniform suggestions were bold & cheerful and executed in full by the team, with the exception of the powder blue (due in part to COVID-19 supply chain issues.) There’s always another season ahead to explore new things!
With a fresh brand, I also proposed new social graphics, inspired by vintage score books.
And of course a brand wouldn’t be complete without fresh business cards, too!
