With Canal Zone by Design, the aim is to revive and celebrate the unique elements of the former Canal Zone, where memories and history come to life through the smallest details. Sometimes, a single image or design can instantly transport you back to those cherished moments from our time in the Zone, and I’m eager to capture those timeless, eye-catching elements.

As someone born and raised in the Zone, with citizenship rooted in both my American and Panamanian heritage, my roots run deep. I spent my school years at Balboa Elementary, Curundu Junior High, and Balboa High, graduating in 1990. After a few years of art school, my path led me to Hollywood, where I worked on creating special effects for film and television.

With a recent break from the world of filmmaking, I found myself drawn back to the fundamentals of creativity. It felt like the perfect time to polish up some of my design skills, revisit the creative process, and reconnect with the tools of graphic design. The idea of merging this renewed creative journey with designs inspired by the Canal Zone was simply irresistible. It didn’t take long to find classic designs that were perfect candidates for a digital transformation. Sharing these creations as stickers, keychains, coasters, and more has been a wonderfully fulfilling project.

It's been an exciting adventure to bring this imagery back to life and share it with others. I hope you enjoy these designs as much as I did creating them, and that they spark memories for you to share with those around you.

-Rob