Strategy / Illustration / Experiential and spatial design / User-centred design / Branding
Tired of swiping this Valentines? Look no further than The Pen Museum's new bar. A multisensory dating experience bringing romance back to basics - writing your number on a napkin. Your handwriting reveals more than you think, perhaps even your soulmate. Guided by The Pen Museum's expert knowledge in calligraphy and graphology, discover what your pen stroke says about you and find your 'pen-pal' admirer, while reigniting appreciation for Birmingham's rich steel pen trade history.
Handwriting tells a story no dating profile ever could
The Challenge
Struggling to keep up in the Jewellery Quarter and reliant on families and seniors, The Pen Museum's legacy depends on creating social media buzz and footfall by attracting 20-30 years old professionals, 45% of whom feel let down by dating apps.
Graphology Did You Know?
Firm Pen strokes = energetic and self-confident
Weak Pen strokes = Humble and kind, but less resilient
Number 1 drawn straight = Righteous and strength
Number 1 drawn with a gently sway = Respectful and enthusiastic
Promoted on dating apps and napkins around the city, the bar installation transforms the Frederick St Museum facade. Where Cupid, a digital bartender, helps participants choose a drink that matches their personality from a pen inspired drinks menu.
In true rom-com style, participants with the pen write their number on a napkin and let AI graphology technology uncover more of their traits written between the lines.
Opposites don't attract?
Couples share 86% similarity in values and personality for lasting love. But not too much, the difference keeps things interesting.
AI matches participants by the compatibility of their personality traits revealed through graphological analysis, while they discover the fascinating world of graphology in the Museum with a 10% discount on entry.
Using their phone numbers, couples are prompted to connect. The Museum starts the budding romance with 50% discount on tickets for a first date, encouraging sharing of the experience with a new audience, bringing relevance to Birminghams steel pen trade.
The most meaningful connections can be sparked in the simplest of ways.