Jungle X-Pedition

Jungle X-Pedition was my first project on the Cedar Fair team. Initially, we intended for Jungle X to open at Kings Dominion in Doswell, VA, in 2020. But with COVID and the changing markets, the project was paused and restarted in 2021. Tasked with picking up where the project left off, our team adapted the initial plans to the new financial outlooks post-pandemic. 

The project consisted of a new coaster, Tumbili, and a revision of the entire land. Previously, it was titled Safari Village, but over time, the theming had diminished, and the land seriously needed a refresh. To do so, we started by creating a new story, which we used to inform our creative decisions moving forward. The story centered around a lost explorer, Gerald Winston Whey, who discovered this imaginary land and laid an "X" to mark the spot of magical temples. In the present day, our story picks up with his granddaughter, Alexandra Whey, who has created a foundation to explore this magical jungle further. Guests can join the Whey Foundation and discover all the land's adventures. 

Using story as our guiding principle, our team created a cohesive experience that park guests couldn't get enough of.

Working with our internal creative team and outside vendors, I created the visual system for the environmental design of the entire land, including a cohesive sign and paint package. We created a complete font from scratch to hide messages throughout the land for guests to discover. We developed the identity for the Whey Foundation, an integral part of the land's backstory. I aided in art direction for posters and maps, which further communicated the story of the land. I illustrated murals and ride graphics and helped revamp a fan-favorite coaster. We collaborated with the merchandise team to renovate the interior of a retail store and directed the interior design. 

The largest and my personal favorite part of this project was working on the center labyrinth: a 40-ft radial maze in the center of the land that served as a stage for shows.

As the designs were complete, I was lucky enough to be on-site to field-direct the installation of the signs. Our team was very hands-on through this process, and the in-park team was an exceptional partner. The entire project was a great learning experience, and I'm so thankful to be a part of it.