Kelly Oakes

The Pastel Pessimist logo

The Pastel Pessimist is my personal art brand, currently featured at Steel Goat Marketplace in Penn Hills, PA, and occasionally available at select vending events.

This brand is a true labor of love, serving as a creative outlet and a way to connect with others who share a quirky, kitschy sense of art. The logo embodies a playful, girly vibe with a touch of dark humor—because, let’s face it, it’s okay to dance in the club while crying. Life’s beauty and its harsh realities can exist together, and now more than ever, it's important to embrace that balance.

Designed in Illustrator, the logo started with a simple concept and evolved into its final form. From signs and custom die-cut business cards to packaging, artwork labels, and stickers, I’ve maintained a consistent look across all materials to build a cohesive brand.