An MS150 Cycling Team

RBC Richardson Barr—in Houston, and a division of The Royal Bank of Canada—contacted us in February to design their team jerseys for the MS150 in April ‘09. Drawing inspiration from potential cures, we developed a jersey based on looking at how MS affects the body at the neural level.

Since the MS150 is about raising funds, creating awareness, and educating the public about multiple sclerosis, we wanted to follow suit in the design. Our research and learning arc about MS brought us to ongoing clinical trials for potential future cures using monoclonal antibodies bound to small synthetic antigens, typically used in treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Below: a superimposed monoclonal antibody diagram.

Inspired by this potential cure—but also by the F.A.B. ribbon diagrams that demonstrate how these monoclonal antibodies work—we put the protein diagrams to work as graphic components of the jersey. Heavy chains, light chains and antigens spill up and over the rider while they endure the grueling 150 mile ride from Houston to Austin.

Below, process images, with our cyclist model.

*As with any corporate client that has pre-existing graphic standards, we were obligated to maintain the official RBC color palette, as well as certain structures guiding the use of typography and logo placement in the jersey.

Client: RBC Richardson Barr
Creative Director: Jett Butler
Design & Research Team: Sissy Emmons, Melissa Martin, Jett Butler
Cycling Model: Señor Francais, courtesy of Ms. Martin.