As part of a college animation project focused on design influence and motion storytelling, I created a video animation inspired by the bold and unapologetically American design language of Aaron Draplin—a personal design hero of mine. The assignment challenged us to develop a motion piece that would serve as a promotional concept for a fictional exhibition at the Whitney Museum, spotlighting the work of a specific designer.
What made the project so enjoyable—and challenging—was translating a designer known for bold, still compositions into a fluid, time-based medium without losing the weight and clarity of his voice. It became not only a tribute to his work but also an exercise in restraint, timing, and graphic rhythm. The final piece functioned as a fictional promotional teaser for “The Bull of Design” at the Whitney—an exhibition celebrating Aaron Draplin’s unapologetic visual style and larger-than-life design philosophy. The animation aimed to capture the strength, grit, and heart behind his work, all in motion.
I chose Draplin for his gritty, no-nonsense design ethos and his love for thick lines, hardworking typography, and all things Americana. The goal was to channel his signature style into motion—bringing his static, print-driven aesthetic to life in a dynamic, digital format.
The animation blended clean vector graphics, strong color blocks, and punchy transitions that echoed Draplin’s visual vocabulary. I incorporated layered textures, oversized typography, and iconography reminiscent of his Field Notes branding and logo work, all timed to a soundtrack that reflected his blue-collar, analog-meets-digital vibe.
Graziano Portfolio 