Created for the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia’s 2026 Cherry Blossom Festival, sponsored by Subaru.

Become as light as a cherry blossom petal and be whisked away to Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, PA, with my winning T-Shirt design. Cherry blossoms emerge from a Tamagawa University performer and soar upward as she welcomes spring with the sounds of Taiko drums and excited festival attendees. The spirit of the Cherry Blossom Festival blooms into view, showing iconic landmarks of Fairmount Park. To the left, the Horticulture Center peaks out with its greenhouse windows, where guests practice their calligraphy and attend cultural workshops. Following the path of the cherry blossoms to the right stands the top of the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, where traditional Japanese architecture, soft Tatami mats, and a tranquil garden await.

Fairmount Park’s Cherry Blossom Festival has been an annual tradition of mine since 2014, when I discovered it from the ever-growing anime convention, Zenkaicon in Lancaster, PA. Rain or shine, I've been attending while taking photography. A handful of my photos are the template for my design; including the Tamagawa University performer, as well as the taiko drums, and shofuso’s roof. Similar to the flow of the design, this opportunity is a full-circle moment for that inspiring photographer turned graphic designer.