New Orleans Fold-Out Map with Neenah

The emphasis on the places highlighted gives the local hot spots the attention rather than a strict, traditional map.

– Russell Shaw, Russell Shaw Design

Each year, AIGA holds a national design conference in a different city. In addition to speakers, vendors and networking opportunities, a great conference experience involves easily navigating the host city and exploring both iconic and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

After working with Russell Shaw Design on an Atlanta maps component for Neenah Paper’s Future Classics promotion, the paper company — the Supporting Sponsor of the 2015 AIGA conference — wanted to partner with the firm on a similar map for the host city of New Orleans as a promotional piece to hand out at the event.

The resulting map is a 5-panel foldout keepsake that showcases creative and inspiring restaurants, shops, bars, music halls and parks around five neighborhoods in the city. Each panel also has a perforated edge along the fold, so that users can separate out a single neighborhood into a 5”-x-7” print or postcard that they can frame or give away. The back of each map highlights two items with more detail — especially in terms of the conference’s theme of “revival.”

The maps were offset printed by Fey Printing with 2/2 spot color on Neenah Classic Crest Stipple Avon Brilliant White 80 lb. Cover.

“I selected the Classic line as a nod to the idea of ‘revival’ as well,” says art director, designer and illustrator Russell Shaw. “While the Stipple provides a rich textural backdrop, the Avon Brilliant White lets the colors really pop.” The hand-lettered titles, vintage filigree and imperfect lines highlight the Southern Gothic nature and joie de vivre of New Orleans. The 3-color print of the black contrasting with the bright, warm orange is striking and stands out in vivid NOLA fashion.

Design Credits:
Art Director, Designer, Illustrator: Russell Shaw
Marketing Communications Manager: Sarah Baker (Neenah)
Copywriters: Sarah Baker, Russell Shaw, Alexa Pulitzer
Artist Interview: Alexa Pulitzer

Printer Credits:
Print Production Manager: Carrie Otto (Neenah)
Printing Partner: Fey Printing (Special thanks to Scott Gasch and Paul Siekert)