MARIKAATO

Overview
This project showcases a series of creatively designed traveling postcards, featuring historical buildings and cultural elements. The Friesland series includes two distinct types of postcards for each building: a double-sided black-and-white postcard with detailed line art and a fun fact, and a folded, fully colored postcard that highlights the building’s architectural beauty with five additional facts on the back. The goal was to introduce more engaging and creative postcard options to the region.

Objective
The primary aim of this project was to revitalize the postcard market in Friesland by offering unique, visually appealing options that stand out from the usual fare. These postcards are designed not only as souvenirs but also as educational tools that offer insights into the history and significance of each featured building. By providing information in four languages—English, Dutch, Frisian, and German—the postcards cater to a broad audience of both local residents and international tourists.

Challenges and Solutions
One of the main challenges was the extensive research required to identify and select buildings that would be of interest from a tourist’s perspective. Each building needed to be historically significant and visually compelling. The design also had to accommodate the detailed line art for the black-and-white version and the vibrant color for the folded version while maintaining consistency in quality.

Results
The postcards have been well-received. They have become popular among tourists and locals alike, appreciated not just as mementos but also as conversation starters that spark interest in Friesland’s rich architectural history. You can find them in local meusiums and shops.

Tools and Techniques
The project was brought to life using Adobe Suite, enabling the creation of both detailed line art and vibrant colored illustrations. The process involved meticulous research into the history of each building to ensure the facts were both accurate and engaging. By blending historical research with artistic creativity, these postcards offer a unique way to explore and appreciate the architectural heritage of Friesland and Kazakhstan.