I began my design process by researching inspirational imagery that fit the look and feel of my fictitious phone app. I chose a vintage look combined with a variety of imagery that evoked a kitschy roadside attraction quality. The app interface needed to look fun with a bit of mystery, and the style needed to evoke a sense of history.
Next I needed to sketch out my ideas for the five icons using the style and muted colors of my inspirational images. I decided to use a map pin shape element that could also double as an ouija board planchette, connecting location with lore. Within the shape design would be the category illustration. The design needed to be simple yet stylistic and easily understood for the category each design represented. A ghost represented haunted places, a condemned house represented fabled locations, a brontosaurus represented roadside oddities, a figure of a sasquatch represented bizarre beasts, and a Victorian-dressed gentleman represented strange people. Each category would lead the app user to a strangely unique location where more could be learned and experienced.
Final Digital Icon Designs
In-App Smartphone Mockup
