Adam and Eve: Victorian-Inspired Packaging for Greek Figs

Antonia Skaraki’s design merges art, storytelling, and tradition in food packaging.

The Adam and Eve packaging project stands out for its homage to the intricate journals of Victorian scientists and explorers. These historical notebooks, filled with hand-drawn botanical illustrations and meticulous notes, serve as the foundation for the design’s visual language. By channeling this spirit of discovery, the packaging invites consumers to experience the figs not just as a product, but as a story rooted in centuries-old traditions.

Antonia Skaraki’s approach extends beyond aesthetics, weaving together storytelling, natural history, and artistic expression. The packaging references the ancient practice of drying figs, as first described in Homer’s Odyssey, and incorporates vintage botanical illustrations that evoke curiosity and exploration. This narrative-driven design sets Adam and Eve apart in a crowded market, offering a sensory journey that connects consumers to the fruit’s cultural heritage.

Technically, the packaging employs advanced production techniques such as CMYK, screen printing, varnish, and Flexo UV, utilizing materials like PP white, hot foil gold, and cotton white. These methods ensure that the intricate illustrations and tactile finishes are faithfully reproduced, while also supporting sustainability and durability. The design’s versatility is reflected in its multiple packaging formats, including doypacks, round packs, and glass jars, each tailored to different fig products and consumer experiences.

Market research played a crucial role in the project’s development. The agency’s marketing department analyzed both Greek and international competitors, as well as packaging trends and potential fig by-products. This strategic research informed the design’s direction, ensuring that Adam and Eve would stand out in the US market by offering a distinctive visual identity and product range.

One of the project’s main challenges was balancing the detailed, vintage-inspired artwork with modern production constraints. Achieving a harmonious blend of historical illustration and contemporary packaging functionality required innovative technical solutions and close attention to material choices. The result is a design that honors tradition while meeting the demands of today’s consumers.

Adam and Eve’s packaging has been recognized with the Silver A' Packaging Design Award in 2025, a testament to its exceptional creativity, technical mastery, and emotional resonance. The design transforms the simple act of enjoying figs into an immersive experience, celebrating the intersection of art, science, and culinary heritage.

This project exemplifies how thoughtful design can elevate everyday products, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature’s bounty and the stories behind traditional foods.