Banjo, Beards, and Barrel Juice

Breathing Colour and Character into Weatheroak Hill Brewery’s Cans

SHOWCASING:

  • BRAND DESIGN
  • CREATIVE DESIGN
  • TYPOGRAPHY
  • ILLUSTRATION

When Weatheroak Hill Brewery approached us, they had a clear vision: they wanted their 330ml canned beers to leap from the shelf with playful vibrancy and irresistible charm. Their first two beers, memorably named Doohicky and Barrel Juice, needed labels that would not only reflect the spirit of the brews but also capture the imagination of those browsing the aisles. The team envisioned a lively, personality-driven design featuring a core character who could appear in endless scenarios as the range expanded. Our challenge was to craft a visual concept that would embody energy, humour, and heart, transforming simple cans into mini works of art that called out to be picked up and enjoyed.

We began by exploring a variety of character possibilities, sketching and developing a selection of colourful, life-loving figures. From whimsical animals to quirky human forms, each concept was tested for its ability to convey warmth, mischief, and personality. After rounds of refinement and lively discussions with the brewery team, one figure stood out: a bearded, dungaree-wearing, banjo-playing adventurer. He was cheeky yet friendly, a touch roguish but impossible not to like. This character mirrored the essence of the brewery itself—full of local charm, a love of good times, and a hint of playful rebellion. By rooting the range in a singular, memorable persona, we gave the brand a face that could evolve and entertain across all future releases.

Once the character was defined, the real fun began. We set about designing the initial labels for Doohicky and Barrel Juice, imagining our banjo-toting hero in delightfully humorous scenarios. Each environment was carefully illustrated to tell a story packed with mischief and movement, ensuring that every glance at the can revealed some new detail or joke. We integrated rich, decorative typography and a vibrant palette of colours to enhance the sense of energy, making the cans as enjoyable to look at as the beers are to drink. The combination of bold illustration, playful narrative, and eye-catching visual design created packaging that felt alive, inviting shoppers to stop, smile, and engage with the brand.

The result was a set of beer cans that did more than hold a beverage—they became conversation starters and collectable pieces of artwork, embodying the joyful personality of Weatheroak Hill Brewery. The bearded banjo player now serves as a versatile mascot, ready to appear in different guises, settings, and adventures as the brewery introduces new brews to its line-up. Beyond their visual appeal, the labels have proven their practical magic: turning casual glances into purchases. By blending humour, storytelling, and decorative illustration into a cohesive design, we delivered on the brewery’s vision of bright, eye-catching packaging that captures both the imagination and the taste buds of beer lovers.