Visual Communication - Bachelor

The Guidlings

The Guidlings is a joyful initiative designed to transform visits to the Wesley Hospital for children. With a cast of lively animated characters, the Guidlings offer guidance to different wards and bring moments of fun and comfort, making each visit feel a little less daunting.

meet the guidlings

The Guidling characters capture a playful, childlike aesthetic through their expressive shapes and whimsical details. Each one was first hand-drawn to preserve a sense of innocence and charm, then refined into clean vector illustrations and coloured in Illustrator to align with the brand’s vibrant identity.

Image showing all 14 guidlings

logo

logos

Playing cards

To help entertain young patients and make their hospital stay more enjoyable, a custom pack of playing cards was created featuring the Guidlings as the central design. Each card showcases a different character, turning a familiar game into a playful, comforting experience. This not only provides a fun distraction but also reinforces the presence of the Guidlings throughout the hospital journey.

Stickers

Stickers of each Guidling were created in order to add yet another interactive feature to the project for the Childrens entertainment.

sticker sheet of all characters

Booklet

To make the project more interactive and engaging, a character booklet was developed to introduce each of the Guidlings in more detail. Every character comes with a personalised story that adds depth and personality, helping children connect with them on a more emotional level. The booklet also includes fun animal facts, blending entertainment with education to spark curiosity and make learning part of the hospital experience. This thoughtful addition encourages exploration, storytelling, and a sense of companionship during a potentially overwhelming time.

Mockup of character pamphlet.

Navigation

To ensure the success of the Guidlings project, it’s essential that children are introduced to the journey from the very beginning. Positioned near the entrance of the Wesley, three vibrant info boards will welcome young visitors with an introduction to the Guidlings, share their story, and invite families to pick up a character booklet. From there, children are encouraged to follow the Guidlings’ footsteps throughout the hospital, creating a sense of adventure, familiarity, and comfort from the moment they arrive.

Matilda Marles

No matter the medium Tilly is always creating. Whether its working with clay, designing graphics or simply doodling she channels creativity and inspiration into anything she does. Her work blends playful energy with purpose, shaped by her visual communication studies and a passion for user centered, eco conscious design that balances functionality, and a more thoughtful future.