Incorporating Japanese mascot culture into my Creative Footing mountain goat design
During my recent trip to Japan, I found myself surrounded by mascot-style logos and illustrations. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the quieter corners of rural areas in places like Fukuoka and Kanazawa, these charming and often quirky characters covered everything from shops and advertisements to public signage. It was impossible to miss them, and I found myself drawn to the unique style and how it instantly connected the Japanese culture.
Japan’s love for mascots, known as yuru-chara, is a fascinating aspect of their visual culture. These characters, often inspired by animals or mythical figures, are designed to be relatable and endearing, forging an emotional connection with their audience. The simplicity and expressiveness of these mascots make them memorable, making them a perfect vehicle for branding, poster design, and signage.
The more I explored the cities, the more I started to think about how I could incorporate this playful, eye-catching aesthetic into my work. As a graphic designer in Newcastle, I’m always looking for ways to push the boundaries of my creativity and take inspiration from different parts of the world. That’s when I decided to give my Creative Footing Mountain Goat a little Japanese-inspired twist.
The Mountain Goat, a central character in my brand identity, is typically depicted in a clean, modern style. However, after taking in Japan’s mascot culture, I felt it was the perfect time to add a new outlook to the logo design. Drawing on the bold, graphic elements found in Japanese illustration, and reimagined the Mountain Goat with a more exaggerated and cartoonish flair.
It’s amazing how a trip halfway across the world can inspire new directions in your creative journey. I’m looking forward to seeing where this and other influences will take me next!
