Boppo Faceplate Series
Vector Illustration · Product Artwork · Print Assets
Boppo is a screen-free play and learning device with physical buttons, lights, games, stories, and activities. Kids can add a themed faceplate on top of their device to add more fun content. I've worked with the Boppo team to create 15 Toppo faceplates (and counting!)
Designing the artwork means thinking beyond what would make a cute illustration. It has to work with the gameplay and fit the unique shape of the device, all while creating something Boppo's parents and kiddos are excited to add to their collection.
Boppo's creative partner: they bring the brief and I build on it.
The challenge
Each Toppo combines a physical illustrated faceplate and buttons with themed games, stories, educational content, and other interactive experiences.
The visual world needs to feel cohesive with other designs in the series, while also not being afraid to try something new.
I have to account for practical considerations such as button placement, age range, character visibility, color and contrast, existing brand guidelines, and the way the printed artwork interacts with the shape of the physical product.
My approach
I begin by looking at the theme alongside the games, stories, or educational content planned for that Toppo. From there, I think about how the environment and individual buttons can work together as one visual world.
A button might connect directly to the larger scene, zoom in on a character or object, or include a detail related to something the child will hear or do while playing. I look for opportunities to add Easter eggs and visual references that connect the artwork to the audio or gameplay.
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TOPPO DESIGNS
I bring an abundance of ideas and a system to keep creativity repeatable and scalable. As Boppo looks toward growing, I’ve helped build systems that make each Toppo easier to develop, review, and hand off. I created documentation for our illustration standards, approval workflow, file setup, and print process, and developed a folder structure that we duplicate for every new Toppo. With this system, files stay organized through multiple rounds of revisions.
Organization + Creativity
"Alexa is an incredible talent and fabulous personality. She demonstrates creativity in her design work, critical thinking and organization. She asks the right questions, keeps work on timeline, communicates proactively and on top of it all creates spot on design...If you have the opportunity to work with Alexa, don’t pass it up."
Vivian Kvam, Account Director at Bulu