Introduction
During this semester, while taking Visual Communication and Advocacy, I was able to advance my design skills and explore strategies that will benefit me in the future. I first gained a massive amount of knowledge in photoshoots, illustrator, and InDesign, significantly improving my creative workflow and technical expertise. I was also able to develop skills in brand relationships, marketing techniques, and nonpro bono work. Each part of an individual process allowed me to understand a wide variety of design ideologies that I was then able to apply to my work. This class had a fun, engaging environment that encouraged my brain to dive deeper into the various aspects of graphic design.
Advocacy
My definition of advocacy is projecting and promoting a cause, group, idea, or organization that aligns with one's views, values, and opinions. It is having a deep understanding of individuals, communities, or societal issues that need commitment and support. Advocacy also involves remaining resolute and cooperating with like-minded others. Together, you can make a greater difference and strive for long-lasting change. Making an impact is the primary goal of advocacy, whether it be through action, effective communication, or artistic expression. Relating advocacy with design, it uses visual communication and creative problem-solving to support important causes and inspire meaningful change. Its crafting messages that educate, motivate, and engage, advocacy design connects with audiences on a deeper level. This approach turns creativity into a catalyst for awareness, action, and lasting progress. Advocacy is truly an outlet made from passion. It is so accepting of all views because its main goal is positively promoting.
Reflection
Now that I have worked with our client Grassroots and was able to put my skills to use for their longings I was able to gain lots of knowledge. It was insightful to learn how to interact and communicate with a customer and project their needs efficiently and effectively. Through graphic design, it can support non-profits in New Orleans by spreading advertising and awareness of its goal and outcome. The challenges that non-profits face in accessing design services can be budgeting, branding, and demands. The challenges that designers face in accessing design services can be communication, profits, and clarity.
Project 1
Overview
The "Not Cowardly" project represents a unique blend of fashion and activism, aiming to raise awareness about animal cruelty while providing stylish, ethical alternatives for consumers. By creating a hypothetical vegan purse brand dedicated to compassion, sustainability, and education, the project seeks to inspire individuals to make informed choices that align with their values. Through effective branding and promotional efforts, "Not Cowardly" aims to build a community of conscious consumers who are unafraid to stand up for animals.
Process
Final Products
Mood Board
Typography
I wanted the typography to be simplistic and modern. The types I chose are exactly projecting smooth, clear, and lucid. It shows the simple life of veganism.
Color Palette
I wanted to keep a neutral color palette that displays aspects of cowhides and greenery. The green I picked speaks to modern veganism and the browns and creams project the colors and patterns of natural cow coats as well as authentic leather.
Logos
The "Not Cowardly" logo was designed with a chic, contemporary sensibility, reflecting the brand's commitment to simplicity and modernity. The all-caps sans-serif typography exudes authority, while maintaining an elegant, minimalist presence. Special attention was given to the integration of the smooth, modern cow patch, ensuring it seamlessly complemented all three logo variations for a cohesive, striking result.
Social Media Mockups
The social media post was crafted to preserve the brand's natural color palette while ensuring visual prominence. A soft cream background paired with the model's attire allowed the bags to command attention, creating a striking focal point. The fluid photo slide effect introduced a dynamic, seamless perspective that harmonized with the brand's refined aesthetic. The typography stayed true to the brand’s established style, with concise, yet compelling messaging that left a lasting impact.
Brochure
The brochure was designed to eloquently convey the brand’s commitment to vegan principles and its ethical stance on cattle life. Nature and sustainability were subtly woven throughout, creating a harmonious visual narrative. A standout feature is the cow image, framed in the same geometric shape as the logo, serving as a striking divider between pages while reinforcing the brand's identity. The bags were showcased in a clean, organized layout that underscored the brand's minimalist aesthetic. The text was carefully crafted to complement the brand’s story—concise, informative, and aligned with the brand’s core values.
Billboard
The billboard was designed to juxtapose the raw beauty of nature with the vibrancy of city life. The cows, gracefully positioned across Central Park, symbolize the brand's commitment to vegan leather, seamlessly blending urban fashion with natural elements. Meanwhile, the image of the woman confidently striding through the field embodies the fusion of contemporary style and environmental consciousness, creating a powerful visual narrative that celebrates both city life and sustainability.
Project 2
Overview
The "Not Cowardly" project represents a unique blend of fashion and activism, aiming to raise awareness about animal cruelty while providing stylish, ethical alternatives for consumers. By creating a hypothetical vegan purse brand dedicated to compassion, sustainability, and education, the project seeks to inspire individuals to make informed choices that align with their values. Through effective branding and promotional efforts, "Not Cowardly" aims to build a community of conscious consumers who are unafraid to stand up for animals.
Process
Final Product
