PROJECTS OBJECTIVES:
- Design posters for a series of three on one united subject
- Integrate research for informed design decisions
- Include an element that can be used on all pieces in the series
Tools:
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
- Procreate
- Freepik
OVERVIEW:
This project aimed to research a current social issue and raise awareness for that issue through the use of culturally significant symbolism. A specific motif like a logo or hashtag was to be created and used in all posters in the series for unity. Each piece needs to be cohesive to the series. However, it was also important that each was unique enough to stand independently.
PROCESS:
During research, I looked at what kind of factors can contribute to someone's risk of suicidal feelings or behaviours. The results varied greatly, so I focused on depicting those who have already lost someone to suicide. The research found that breaking the stigma and educating people on how to identify risks and behaviours is crucial for fostering an environment that could help prevent suicides and better support those affected by it. I also began brainstorming how medication and treatment could be used as another prominent theme since my research found that stigma in these areas does contribute to suicide statistics every year.
SOLUTION:
This subject is particularly close to my heart, and I could express that through these pieces and connect with the audience in doing so. The primarily black and white colour scheme was used to represent how the world can feel for people after losing someone to suicide. The only colour used in these posters was turquoise, which is known as one of the main colours for suicide prevention. This contrast also serves to help catch the eye of viewers passing by them and spark curiosity. The same sentiment inspired the simplicity of the overall designs. Each piece has a plain black background with a subject that resonates with the stigma around suicide and mental health. The hashtag, “you are not a burden”, seeks to break the common mindset that prevents people from getting help for their mental health. When used in a social media setting, this tag could provide information and support for anyone experiencing suicide from any angle. The paint motif used over the mouths of the subjects in posters one and two represents the feeling of being silenced from discussing personal struggles.
