Tucson Terror Fest (2024)
The Tucson Terror Fest is a local, annual event that all horror fans look forward to. When I was asked to design this poster, I wanted to create a blend of local aesthetics and horror elements.
The Southwest is known for its paranormal communities, so including aliens as a nod to the popular throwback “Mars Attacks!” felt like the perfect fit.
The film is packed with quirky elements but centers around three main icons: the Martian leader, the alien femme fatale disguise, and the reporter fused with her dog. I used a mirror effect to highlight these three designs, allowing them to stand out without being overwhelmed by other elements. To add a local touch, I depicted the Catalina Foothills with saguaro cacti and used a desert sunset color palette. This combination of colors showcases horror in a unique way and aims to draw in people who might not be familiar with the convention, while also serving as an aesthetically pleasing poster to be displayed in downtown windows.
Sketching Process
Since this poster was designed as an alternative for the event, I wanted to incorporate softer elements compared to the edgier style of the other artist’s poster. This way, the pieces can complement each other and still be recognized as part of the same event.
I chose to use symmetry to draw attention to the central text and guide the viewer's eye along the edges without being overwhelmed.
