Cal Poly Pomona: Barkada
Barkada is a Tagalog word that translates to "a group of friends"
Cal Poly Pomona Barkada is a Filipino-American culture club that was established in the 1980s. The club promotes Pilipino culture to its surrounding communities through its four pillars: academic, culture, athletics, and social.
As their public relations officer and graphic designer for the 2023 to 2024 term, I had one of the responsibilities of designing their shirt. As well as managing the image of the club through public events and social media.
Background
The executive board members of the club name each year with a name that represents what the year is going to look like. With a hopeful outlook for the 2023 to 2024 academic year, it was named "Starr-E" with the concept of reaching for the stars and achieving one's goals.
Research
The bahay kubo is a a stilt house typically made out of wood or bamboo indigenous to the Philippines. The bahay kubo logo on the shirt has been its logo of the club since the 1980s and continues to be a recognizable logo across generations who come across the club Barkada.
The sampaguita is the national flower of the Philippines which symbolizes a few characteristics such as hope.
Design Process
First draft of the bahay kubo has fifteen stars to represent the fifteen members on executive board.
Below are other options for the front of the shirt. Mainly incorporating the Philippines sun, the third image is the name of the club "Barkada" in baybayin script which is the alphabet of the Philippines.
Some of the deliverables for the shirt's design was to include the bahay kubo and some stars to represent the name of the year.
Results
This project resulted in a streetwear-inspired t-shirt design that features a personal message that resonates with members of Barkada. The design was based on the 2023 to 2024 star theme.
The shirts were distributed to over 100 club members. The vibrant purple color of the shirt enhances the club's visibility in public and makes the club easily recognizable. It not only embodies the spirit of the club, but it also celebrates Filipino culture creating a strong sense of community among members.
