El Tecolote – 50th Anniversary Branding & Print Design
I had the honor of designing key visuals for El Tecolote’s 50th anniversary, celebrating the legacy of the longest-running bilingual newspaper in California. This milestone event was a tribute to the dedicated journalists, community members, and activists who have shaped El Tecolote’s impact over the past five decades.
Designing for a Legacy
El Tecolote has been a pillar of independent journalism and Latinx storytelling since 1970. For their 50th anniversary, I was tasked with creating a cohesive and bold visual identity that would reflect the newspaper’s deep community roots while honoring its evolution.
Key Design Elements
MUNI Bus Banner
I designed large-scale banners displayed on San Francisco’s MUNI buses, showcasing past and present contributors who helped shape El Tecolote. By blending archival and contemporary imagery, the designs honored the newspaper’s 50-year legacy while reinforcing its continued presence in the community.
Pole Banner
These street banners featured a dynamic mix of past and present contributors, visually bridging El Tecolote’s 50-year history with its ongoing impact in the community. Bold typography and archival imagery honored the newspaper’s legacy while maintaining a modern, celebratory feel.
50th Anniversary Booklet
One of the most meaningful parts of this project was designing a commemorative booklet that highlighted the stories, voices, and contributions of the people who shaped El Tecolote. Using historical photos provided by the newspaper, I crafted a visually rich layout that honored both past and present contributors.
A Celebration of Storytelling
Working on this project was an incredible experience—not just as a designer but as someone who values the power of community-driven journalism. Seeing my designs displayed across the city and in the hands of those who made El Tecolote what it is today was truly rewarding.
