How a Tournament Mascot Comes to Life: The Story of One Panther
How a Tournament Mascot Comes to Life: The Story of One Panther
Sometimes a project doesn't begin with a poster or even a logo.
Sometimes, it begins with a character.
For the Grand Premium Platja d'Aro International Rhythmic Gymnastics Tournament, the organizers wanted to create a mascot that children would look forward to meeting, hug, take photos with, and remember long after the competition had ended.
The project came with an interesting challenge. The panther was inspired by the event partner's mascot, so it was important to preserve a recognizable connection while creating a character with its own unique personality and charisma.
My goal was to create more than just another mascot. I wanted it to become a true symbol of Grand Premium Platja d'Aro—a character that would be instantly associated with our tournament. That's why I gave it expressive green eyes, a warm smile, soft and friendly proportions, a distinctive silhouette, and a small green four-leaf clover as a symbol of good luck.
From Concept Sketch to Mascot Costume
Once the concept sketch was approved, the work moved on to the costume manufacturer—and that's where the most fascinating part of the process began.
Turning a flat illustration into a real three-dimensional mascot costume is much more complex than it may seem. Some elements had to be adapted to fit the construction of the head, the performer's visibility, manufacturing techniques, and the materials used. Together with the production team, we refined the head shape, proportions, and facial features, constantly balancing technical requirements with the original artistic vision.
For me, preserving the character's personality was the most important part of the process. Despite all the necessary adjustments, I wanted the final costume to be instantly recognizable as the very same panther I had created in the very first concept sketch.
And then comes the most rewarding moment for any designer.
When, a few months later, you start receiving dozens of photos of children running toward your character for a hug.
When the mascot becomes part of their happiest memories.
When champions pose for pictures with it.
When it appears in the stories and photos shared by athletes, coaches, and families from all over the world.
That's the moment when you realize the character is no longer just an illustration—it has become part of the atmosphere and identity of the event.
To me, that's what great design is all about.
It's not only about creating beautiful visuals. It's about creating emotions, memories, and experiences that stay with people long after the event is over.
The last photos show the finished Grand Premium Platja d'Aro mascot, alongside the original concept sketch where the journey first began. 💜🐾