“We are excited to announce that the signature artwork for the 49th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival has been created by George F. Baker III,” states Adriane Jefferson, Executive Director of the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. “This piece represents the heartbeat of Atlanta. It captures the spirit of the festival and the cultural legacy that makes this city a global center for music and creativity.”
Baker’s artwork will be featured on this year’s Atlanta Jazz Festival poster and t-shirt. These items will be available for sale at the festival in Piedmont Park on Memorial Day Weekend, May 23-25.
When asked how he approached the design for this year’s artwork, Baker says, “I wanted to showcase the dynamic of how a combination of people, music and energy can uplift the SPIRIT of the city of Atlanta. What makes Atlanta interesting is the varied tapestry of cultures that come together to create a special sauce you can't get anywhere else!”
“I sought to make the piece feel as if it’s pulsating with the energy of the city, and it constantly keeps you moving around the design,” Baker continues. “You might first focus on the main character, but then your eye starts to notice the unique details of each character. I especially love the woman using the city skyline as her drum set.”
About the artist. George F. Baker III, also known as GFB3, is a Nebraska-born, Detroit Grown, and Atlanta-Raised Creator. Using his instruments of design, illustration, and production, he employs a playful childlike spirit to engage the inner child we all have. Some of his clients include Adult Swim, Atlanta United, Georgia Power, Mercedes-Benz, Levi’s, and Topo Chico. Currently, he is the Creative Director of Foster, a studio-collective striving to make people unafraid to play. For more information, visit his website:
www.gfbthree.com.
The 49th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival is presented by the City of Atlanta - Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. The mission of the Atlanta Jazz Festival is to educate and entertain a diverse audience of jazz fans and to nurture the next generation of jazz musicians. The festival is funded through corporate sponsorships and by Atlanta Jazz Festival Inc, a 501(c)(3) cultural, non-profit organization. For more information about this year’s festival including the 31 Days of Jazz schedule, the pre-festival concert with the Miles Electric Band, the Late-Night Jazz Jam, and the VIP Experience, visit the website:
atljazzfest.com.