Merging Maritime and Metal Aesthetics for Lady Nellie Oyster Farm’s Custom Illustration

custom illustration for Lady Nellie Oyster Farm (formerly Monger NOLA)

Overview:

Justin Trosclair, an oyster farmer and award-winning cheese monger, approached me for a custom illustration that would be used for a t-shirt design. Known for his exceptional work in transforming the food program at Really Really Nice Wines, Justin is deeply connected to the local food scene in New Orleans. He wanted a design that honored his roots in Dosgris, LA, where he farms his own oysters, and combined a unique blend of heavy metal and maritime aesthetics. The illustration needed to feature an osprey perched on a pile of oyster shells, paying homage to his beloved grandmother, Lady Nellie, after whom his oysters are named.

Design Process:

The challenge was to create a design that seamlessly blended the rugged, nautical elements with the bold, edgy feel of heavy metal. Understanding Justin’s vision, I set out to create an illustration that captured the strength and grace of the osprey, a bird symbolizing resilience and freedom, while also incorporating the rough textures and dark tones typically associated with heavy metal imagery.

some process sketches

The final design perfectly threaded the needle between these two distinct aesthetics. The osprey, depicted in a powerful stance atop a pile of oyster shells, conveys a sense of pride and strength, reflecting both the maritime heritage and the bold personality of the brand. The illustration not only met Justin’s expectations but also provided a distinctive visual identity for Monger NOLA that stands out in both the culinary and artistic communities.

mockup of the proposed t-shirt design

Impact:

The custom illustration has become a key element of Monger NOLA’s branding, especially in the form of t-shirt designs that resonate with Justin’s customer base. The design’s unique combination of maritime and heavy metal elements has helped Monger NOLA carve out a distinctive niche, reinforcing Justin’s reputation for creativity and quality in everything he does.

another tshirt mockup