Selected by the Atlanta Pride Board to design the official visual identity for the 2026 festival, I created the overarching campaign framework and brand system for the 2026 Festival theme, "Louder and Prouder."
Featured in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, this project holds deep personal significance. Having attended my first Atlanta Pride in 2019 while a student at Georgia State University, designing the 2026 campaign allowed me to dedicate my creative talents back to the community that shaped who I am as both a designer and a person.
My Vision for Louder & Prouder
Being "louder and prouder" looks different for everyone. It manifests in those marching in the streets,
those organizing fundraisers behind the scenes, creators making queer art, and individuals leading in professional workplaces.
To capture this full spectrum, I drew inspiration from historic LGBTQ+ activism posters, modernizing the visual language into bold, contemporary graphics people want to wear and celebrate in 2026.
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Modernized Activism Aesthetics: Combined high-energy typography, inclusive color storytelling, and expressive graphics that honor historical movement posters while feeling fresh and wearable.
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Versatile Campaign Framework: Built a flexible design system that scales seamlessly across digital channels, merchandise, and large-format festival touchpoints.
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Community-Centered Impact: Balanced the celebratory spirit of Pride with a visual narrative that acknowledges the year-round advocacy work powering the movement.
WHAT I DELIVERED
Festival Campaign Identity
Theme logo lockups, color strategy, custom graphic elements, and typography guidelines for the 2026 festival.
T-shirt designs, official festival merchandise, and print signage.
End-to-End Event Branding
Consistent visual systems developed for:
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Pre-festival promotional media and digital campaigns
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VIP Sponsor Reception collateral
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Official Kickoff Party at Georgia Aquarium
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Weekend Festival branding at Piedmont Park
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Atlanta Pride Parade signage and branding
Advertising & Motion Graphics
Triptych MARTA advertisement featuring video editing and dynamic motion graphics.
In the Press
"This year’s Atlanta Pride theme is 'louder and prouder,' and designer Katie Costa believes that tagline can manifest in more than just the literal sense... Costa was selected to design the 2026 Atlanta Pride branding. Her design takes inspiration from historic LGBTQ+ activism posters, modernized to make it something people would want to wear."
— The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC)