The Ojai Music Festival is an annual open-air classical music festival held in Ojai, CA. Dedicated to sharing and performing experimental classical compositions by contemporary musicians, the festival welcomes music lovers of all ages. Through its immersive performances, the event fosters meaningful connections among attendees, celebrating both the timeless beauty of classical music and the joy of creative exploration.

The festival’s visual identity is rooted in a custom typeface inspired by the architecture of the Libbey Bowl, where the performances take place. The Bowl’s semi-circular shape, nestled within a forest, allows the audience to be fully immersed in both nature and music. Reflecting the harmony and experimental spirit of the festival, typography serves as the centerpiece of the design. Each letter is crafted to evoke the form of musical notes and the fluidity of sound waves. Just as sound can range from the deep resonance of a cello to the dynamic beat of percussion, the letters embody these qualities, creating a “visual symphony” that captures the essence of the festival’s music. Here, typography transcends its visual function to symbolize the diverse sounds and instruments woven together through experimental classical music.

Ojai itself is a beloved travel destination, with visitors coming not only for the festival but also to enjoy the city’s natural beauty and artistic culture. Embracing this, I designed a spatial, interactive installation within Ojai that invites the public to explore various instruments and create melodies themselves. This installation extends the reach of the festival, encouraging travelers and locals alike to participate actively in the celebration.

Running over three days, the festival includes Ojai Talks and pop-up events across the city. To help attendees navigate, I created a portable schedule guide, encouraging that everyone—whether a local or a visitor—can experience this creative festival fully, whether attending concerts or discovering Music Pop-ups.