For artist Geoff Stone, design is so much more than a career. “Design has taken me around the nation and allowed me to do what I enjoy with people I enjoy,” he says. Now design is bringing Geoff back home with a fresh Ashland Train Day image emblazoned on merchandise.
“As a designer, what better subject could one hope for but Ashland, trains, and the spirit of a family-friendly good time?” Geoff asks in an interview with Downtown Ashland Association.
Geoff’s previous work can be spotted in the Center of the Universe Brewing Company logo and on over 20 of their cans. With so much experience in the Center of the Universe, Geoff had no trouble incorporating iconic Ashland train elements into the 2023 Ashland Train Day design. - like the station, clock, and dual tracks. “Pulling it all together in this way allowed for a variety of applications,” says Geoff, “from full-color posters to fun merchandise.”
“We are incredibly fortunate to have Geoff donate his time and expertise in support of Ashland Train Day,” says Maggie Longest, Downtown Ashland Association’s executive director, and the event’s organizer. “His designs are both eye-catching and timeless. I can’t wait to see people wearing them on Train Day!”
Full-color posters and merchandise have been produced from Geoff’s designs by Downtown Ashland’s own print shop, We Think In Ink. While Ashland Train Day T-shirts can be bought on Saturday, April 29 at the central Info Tent in the intersection of Thompson Street and Railroad Avenue beside the tracks, the full selection with hoodies, hats, and bibs are only available until Thursday, April 20. Orders can be picked up at Ashland Train Day or shipped.
Geoff hopes his designs will help the Ashland Train Day memories will last a lifetime:
“I’d like to imagine that years from now, as folks pull out an old, well-worn 2023 Ashland Train Day T-shirt to work in the yard or dry off the dog after a bath, that they will be reminded of the fun they had,” says Geoff. “After all, it’s not about the design. It’s about the day, and people sharing a good time that becomes a great memory. To me, that’s Ashland every day.”
Geoff Stone’s designs can be found throughout Ashland and Richmond. You can reach him at stonebranded.com.