Opening of the Academic Year – Turning a Moment into a Message
What does a strong event identity look like when everything hinges on first impressions?
This was the guiding question for the Opening of the Academic Year at TU Delft—a high-profile, university-wide event that marks the start of the academic calendar and sets the tone for the year ahead. For the first time, the Graphics team at the New Media Centre (NMC) played a central role in crafting the full visual experience of the event, from conceptual design to final execution.
The design process began with a single, evocative image—selected to represent the overarching theme of the event. Rather than treat this image as a static element, we used it as a visual anchor to guide all creative decisions. Every output was designed around it to ensure a coherent and immersive visual identity.
Deliverables included:
- Website banners that introduced the event to digital visitors
- Email invitations that communicated the tone and theme directly to attendees
- Intro animations for speakers, adding a dynamic layer to the live program
- Printed materials such as name tags, posters, and stickers for physical presence
- Flags and gobo projections that transformed the event space
- Social media assets designed to generate engagement and anticipation
- Intro and outro sequences combining motion graphics and sound design
The goal was not only to inform but to emotionally connect the audience to the event’s purpose. The visual language—color palette, rhythm, animation pacing, and graphic motifs—was carefully designed to maintain attention throughout the event.
This level of cohesion was made possible by the dedicated effort of one graphic designer who worked full-time over several months. The design process required not just creativity but also coordination, as the graphics had to align with multiple teams and outputs. Sound design was added to heighten the emotional impact of the animated segments, creating a multimedia experience that felt polished and memorable.
“Great design doesn’t just catch the eye—it tells a story, sets the tone, and makes every moment unforgettable.”
In parallel, we collaborated closely with the Live Events team at NMC. Their support in staging, logistics, and technical execution helped bridge the gap between visual content and live performance. The result was a fully integrated experience, where visual and event elements were aligned across all touchpoints.
This project reminded us of the transformative power of design in live events. Visuals do more than decorate—they guide attention, shape atmosphere, and, most importantly, help communicate purpose and identity at scale.
Look at the final outcomes on YouTube and in our picture gallery
Graphic Design: Rui-Jun Luong
