The Prospect Theater project in Modesto, California is a not for profit group of committed theater folk who rely on a supportive community to practice their craft and promote the arts. One of the more dynamic ways the project reaches out to the public is through the annual Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves fundraiser. The event pulls together the talents of local artisans, chefs, musicians and performers for a night of good taste and cultural polish … with a hint of some baroque-style debauchery.

It was an honor to design the first year’s marketing material. Vivid color and black and white illustrations are the strength of the design and connote drama, tradition, and extravagance. The background textures are rough and smooth, beautiful and tarnished. They capture the allure and nature of something that came out of the Byzantine era. The typography supports this style using typefaces influenced by early movable type presses.