In 2022, Harlem-based CBO, Uptown Grand Central, sought a live music element for their monthly “Open Streets” activations in Spanish Harlem. “Open Sounds” was created to fulfill this request by platforming an open call for live vinyl DJs, analog playing lessons for visitors, record vending/swapping, and several community-centric playlists.

The program and marketing were inspired by classic music event posters and community canvasing. It was important to create a colorful, familiar, and appealing signage template that not only communicated all of the offerings, but also stood out in the neighborhood and on social media. It was also necessary for the visuals to build visual rapport, because of the repeating nature of the activation, without exhausting attention. The result was a very exciting series that was beautifully engaged with online and IRL.