Heat of the Summer
2025
Open Window Productions
Disciplines: Social Media, Print and Livestream Graphics
Heat of the Summer is an annual event hosted by Hang Time Board Shop, aimed at bringing together a tight-knit community of skaters.
Graphic and Motion Designer: Gwen Riemenschneider
Videographer: Josh McGrane
Problem
Heat of the Summer is an annual event hosted by Hang Time Board Shop, aimed at bringing together a tight-knit community of skaters. But with the chaos of summer—vacations, festivals, and competing events—it was becoming harder to cut through the noise. The event needed a fresh, eye-catching identity that would energize the scene and keep people coming back year after year.
Process
I developed a bold new direction for the event, centering around a "lava and melting" theme to emphasize intensity, heat, and momentum. I art directed a custom photo and video shoot to create high-impact visuals that matched the vibe. These assets were used across promos, social media, and merchandise to build excitement and recognition.
Outcome
The refreshed branding reignited interest in the event. Heat of the Summer gained new sponsors and moved to a larger venue to accommodate the growing crowd. The visuals not only captured the energy of the community but also elevated the event’s presence both locally and online.
