1960s Tribute Illustration Animation
Illustration, Design and Animation by John Potter - Escape Key Graphics
Client: City of Pembroke Pines
This vibrant artwork was commissioned by the City of Pembroke Pines for its innovative public art program, which transforms municipal utility boxes into curated community canvases. Located at the northwest corner of Hiatus Road and Johnson Street, this specific installation serves as a visual tribute to a neighboring senior center. The goal was to move beyond cliché and honor the residents' enduring spirit by connecting it to the vibrant cultural backdrop of their formative years.
The artistic concept celebrates the 1960s, an era defined by optimism, social change, and distinctive creative energy. The illustration references the decade's iconic music, bold aesthetics, and sense of possibility. This thematic choice reframes the narrative around aging, presenting this life stage not as a slowing down but as a continuation of a rich personal history. The result is an artwork that resonates with depth and respect, offering a colorful and meaningful addition to the streetscape.
Executing a successful wrap for a three dimensional structure requires a fusion of artistic vision and technical precision. My process began with a comprehensive site survey to document the utility box's exact dimensions and all its hardware. I then used this data to create a detailed three dimensional model in SketchUp Pro. This digital model allowed me to compose the artwork as a seamless graphic that flows continuously over every surface, corner, and access panel. This meticulous planning ensures the final vinyl installation reads as a unified, intentional composition from every viewpoint.
Adding a layer of interactive engagement, this utility box features an augmented reality experience. Using the free EyeJack app on a smartphone, viewers can scan the artwork to unlock a short animated sequence that brings an element of the illustration to life. Please note that I am the illustrator for the core artwork; the augmented reality technology is provided by the third party EyeJack platform.
This project exemplifies how custom illustration can foster connection and celebrate community legacy in shared public spaces. To view more about this project please visit the illustration page for this project.
AFTER EFFECTS ANIMATIONS / MOTION DESIGN / ANIMATED ILLUSTRATIONS:
PORTFOLIOS
- Illustration Portfolio: Start here for custom illustration and book covers. You can also browse illustrated maps and architectural rendering.
- Fine Art: I offer original paintings and drawings, including my Custom Halftone Series. You will also find mural work here.
- Graphic Design & Motion: View my graphic design portfolio. After that, explore motion design and animated illustrations.
- Maps by application: I create illustrated maps for boat shows, resorts, marinas, real estate, transportation, transit and parking, towns and cities, parks, and wayfinding.
- Additional project types: I also produce cover illustration, vehicle and vinyl wraps, proposal renderings, and street art.
- Illustration methods: My techniques include vector, isometric and axonometric, painting, black and white, GeoData maps, overhead maps, and custom halftones.
- Software portfolios: I work primarily in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, SketchUp Pro, and Adobe InDesign. For motion projects, I use Premiere Pro and After Effects. You can watch my demo reel here.