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NYRA 150 Exhibit

Organization: Saratoga Race Course

Role: Designer

Deliverables: Exhibition Identity • Environmental Graphics • Large-Format Graphics • Interpretive Panels • Site Signage

Overview: Designed a commemorative exhibition celebrating the 150th anniversary of Saratoga Race Course, honoring one of America's most historic sporting venues through a series of large-format environmental graphics installed throughout the grounds. Blending archival photography with contemporary design, the exhibition connected visitors with Saratoga's rich history while complementing the character of the race course itself.

Challenge: Celebrate 150 years of Saratoga history through a visual language that respected the site's architectural heritage while feeling engaging and relevant to today's visitors.

Approach: The exhibition identity was built around a decorative motif inspired by the ornamental detailing found throughout Saratoga Race Course's historic grandstand. Archival black-and-white photography was paired with bold geometric framing elements that created a contemporary interpretation of traditional photographic negatives, balancing heritage with modern graphic design. Installed as site-specific environmental graphics throughout the grounds, the exhibition was designed to integrate seamlessly with its surroundings while encouraging visitors to pause, reflect, and experience Saratoga's history in a new way. Originally created for the anniversary exhibition, the large-format panels were later repurposed as permanent environmental graphics throughout the Saratoga Race Course grounds, extending the life of the project and continuing to connect visitors with the site's rich history.

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