The New York Comic Con witnessed an extraordinary escape from the bustling convention atmosphere as attendees were invited to immerse themselves in an enchanting anime sanctuary known as Funimation: Sakura Park. As a member of the experiential design team, I had the incredible opportunity to contribute to this Japanese-inspired fantasy and bring it to life.
Funimation: Sakura Park was a vivid manifestation of Japanese-inspired anime fantasy, where fans found solace and belonging. Throughout the event, guests were treated to a myriad of unforgettable activities and surprises.
To create a sense of exploration and discovery, hidden easter eggs were scattered throughout the experience, encouraging attendees to embark on a thrilling search. The backdrop, adorned with aesthetic backdrops and faux cherry blossom trees, provided picturesque settings for one-of-a-kind photo opportunities. Myself and my team meticulously designed these backdrops to immerse fans in the anime universe, allowing them to capture cherished moments within the enchanting Sakura Park. To enhance the ambiance further, I designed captivating neon signs that illuminated the surroundings, casting a vibrant glow that echoed the energy of the anime world.
Exclusive giveaways and benefits awaited Funimation subscribers, adding an extra layer of excitement and reward for their loyalty. A professional cosplay photoshoot enabled cosplayers to showcase their artistry and passion, capturing the essence of their characters in stunning visuals. The adjacent Funimation Shop offered fans the opportunity to bring their beloved anime lifestyle home, with an array of merchandise and memorabilia to choose from.
Winning the Silver Award for Best Experiential, Immersive & Live Experience, the Funimation: Sakura Park experience captivated attendees with its attention to detail and thoughtfully crafted design. I had the privilege to contribute to this success by designing the immersive indoor and outdoor experiences, custom neon signs for photo backdrops, souvenirs that fans could cherish as mementos of their time at the event. I also lent my creative touch to the skin of the food truck and the gachapon machine, ensuring that every element reflected the captivating anime aesthetics and the Funimation brand. I created anime tarot cards that introduced many of our guests to new shows on our platform.
