DNC Merchandise Will Have Philly Written All Over It
Merchandise designed for the 2016 Democratic National Convention. Photo: Philadelphia 2016 Host Committee
Picture a blue donkey. Now picture it sporting Dorothy-red shoes and flashy red lipstick.
Get excited because the silhouette of this epic donkey will be plastered on T-shirts for sale when the Democratic National Convention comes to town. What’s even better is that Philly local, Brett Bender, conceived the design.
Bender and six other local artists were selected to add their touch to convention goodies — hats, buttons, key chains, candy — all designed to underscore the city’s role in the July 25th to 28th convention.
The official merchandise manager and provider for the convention, Impact Dimensions, selected by the Philadelphia 2016 Host Committee, told the Philadelphia Business Journal that while many national artists showed interest, they chose to position Philadelphia at the forefront by selecting local artists. The convention, which is expected to attract 50,000 guests, will also give these businesses greater exposure, Impact Dimensions said.
“Designed by local artists, our merchandise will serve as keepsakes that Convention guests, Philadelphians and visitors will be able to take home with them to remind them of this historic event in Philadelphia,” said Kevin Washo, the executive director of the Host Committee.
All of the merchandise will be made in the country and available online and in a pop-up store at the Comcast Tower from June 29th through the duration of the DNC. Items will also be sold at Political Fest in the Pennsylvania Convention Center from July 22nd to 27th. The priciest items for sale — T-shirts — are listed at $23, and the cheapest items available, beverage wrenches and magnets, will sell for $2.
Here is the complete list of selected artists:
Dan Duffy of Philly Word Art
Sean Olubodum of Duke & Winston
Brett Bender of BBender27Arts
Lisa Beth Weber of Cause Pins
Dominique Streater of Dom Streater
Mary Dougherty, owner of two Nicole Miller stores in Philadelphia
Michael Fulkerson of Doyle + Associates
The group’s collective portfolio is sure to make for some promising convention memorabilia.
Weber has designed pins worn by Hillary Clinton, Gloria Steinem, and Madeleine Albright. Streater is a Project Runway and Project Runway All Stars winner.
Get your wallets in order.
