At a Glance
The Project
Every cocktail
has a fountain.
As host city for the 2026 World Cup, Kansas City found itself on a very large stage. Did you know it's home to more fountains than any city in the world outside of Rome?
I was hired by Fern Bar to visually retell 14 of the most overlooked stories in Kansas City public art through a carefully selected group of fountains and their respective cocktail pairings, which I delivered as an elevated watercolor-inspired menu.
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Editorial DesignI handled the print process from beginning to end, including type hierarchy, layout, and production-ready files across 14 pages at 5.5" × 8.5", with added margin for binding.
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Original IllustrationI researched, photographed, and hand-drew all 14 illustrations before digitally painting them using a simulated watercolor technique.
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CopywritingDescriptions, fountain captions, and Artist's Statement were all written by me as part
of this project.
The Spreads
Open it up.
A simple color story running through custom-sourced textured paper for an added watercolor-like effect, with navy dividers for variety and visual pause.
The Illustration Technique
Watercolor feel.
Digital precision.
While working through this project, I spent quite a bit of time experimenting with different techniques to get the desired digital effect I was after.
After some trial and error, this simulated watercolor effect is what I landed on. After sourcing specific digital brushes and design software, I was able to recreate the typical precision of digital work that I love while maintaining the warmth, texture, and imperfection of true hand-painted work.
The ability to control saturation, blur, and texture using this technique contributed to the overall sense of authenticity throughout the project.
In Practice
Designed to make a splash.
The Outcome
A menu that tells
a city's story.
Every guest who came into Fern Bar during the Spring and Summer of 2026 received an unexpected piece of Kansas City art and culture with their drink order, regardless of how long they've been in town.
As someone who's lived here for almost my entire life, it feels so special to share the stories of our fountains.
That's Me!