
Rencontres de la Jeunesse – A Visual Identity Designed for Blanc-Mesnil
Rencontres de la Jeunesse was created as a major event dedicated to young people in Le Blanc-Mesnil. The objective of the event was to bring together different aspects of youth life, including culture, sports, creativity, communication and civic engagement. For this project, I was commissioned to create the official visual identity and poster design used to promote the event.
The challenge was to create a visual language capable of speaking directly to young people while remaining accessible to families, local institutions and the broader public. Rather than focusing on a single activity, the visual needed to reflect the diversity of interests, experiences and aspirations that characterize youth culture today.
At the center of the composition stands a female character who acts as the visual anchor of the poster. She embodies the youth of Le Blanc-Mesnil and serves as a point of identification for the audience. The goal was not to represent a specific individual but rather to create a figure capable of symbolizing a generation and its relationship with the city.
Around this central character, a series of visual elements were assembled to create a dynamic composition inspired by the daily life of young people. Each object was carefully selected to represent an aspect of contemporary youth culture and social interaction.
A megaphone appears as a symbol of expression and participation. It represents the importance of having a voice and being heard within the community. The object also echoes themes of dialogue, engagement and public expression.
A smartphone occupies an important place within the composition. As one of the most common tools used by younger generations, it symbolizes communication, connection and access to information. It reflects how digital technology has become an integral part of everyday life.
Emoticons and digital symbols are incorporated throughout the artwork, referencing modern forms of communication and the visual language of social media. These elements help anchor the poster within contemporary culture and make the design immediately recognizable to younger audiences.
A sneaker is used as a symbol of urban culture and daily life. Beyond fashion, it represents movement, individuality and personal identity. It also connects the visual to the codes of street culture and youth expression.
Music is represented through a turntable, highlighting the importance of musical culture within youth communities. This reference also acknowledges the influence of hip-hop culture, which has played an important role in shaping artistic and social identities in urban environments.
Architectural elements inspired by the city of Le Blanc-Mesnil were integrated into the composition. These references reinforce the connection between the event and its local context. The city itself becomes part of the visual narrative, reminding viewers that the event belongs to their environment and community.
Silhouettes practicing sports were added to reflect another essential aspect of youth life. Physical activity, teamwork and self-improvement are important dimensions of many local initiatives, and these figures contribute to the diversity of themes represented within the poster.
Hands appear throughout the composition as symbols of participation, collaboration and collective action. They reinforce the idea that young people are not passive spectators but active participants in the life of their city.
All these elements are united through a colorful graphic charter designed to communicate energy, optimism and creativity. The vibrant palette helps create an inviting atmosphere while reinforcing the positive spirit of the event.
The visual identity was designed to encourage appropriation. By integrating familiar objects and references drawn from everyday life, the poster allows young people to recognize themselves within the composition. This sense of identification was a key objective of the project and an important factor in the effectiveness of the communication campaign.
Rencontres de la Jeunesse demonstrates how graphic design can be used as a tool for connection, helping institutions communicate with younger audiences through visual languages that feel relevant, contemporary and authentic.
I would like to sincerely thank Patrick de Médéris as well as the entire team of the City of Le Blanc-Mesnil for their trust and support throughout this project.
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What is Rencontres de la Jeunesse?
Rencontres de la Jeunesse is an event organized in Le Blanc-Mesnil to celebrate youth culture, participation, sports, creativity and community life.
What was Alex Kanos’ role?
Alex Kanos created the official visual identity and poster design used to promote the event.
Why is there a female character at the center of the poster?
The central figure symbolizes the youth of Le Blanc-Mesnil and acts as a point of identification for the audience.
What was the goal of the design?
To create a visual language that reflects the daily life, interests and aspirations of young people while promoting the event in an engaging way.
Who supported the project?
The project was supported by Patrick de Médéris and the City of Le Blanc-Mesnil.
