Serigraphy Printmaking: Social Commentary
“Be Their Voice”
The project objective suggested that printmaking has often been classified as a democratic medium primarily due to its mass distribution possibilities of informative imagery. The task was to follow that spirit and produce an image addressing contemporary social concerns.
I chose to focus on a topic that weighs heavy on my heart: the mental health of first responders, public safety personnel, and the military. This project was my way of expressing my endless support for the people in my life who mean the most to me. They put their lives on the line daily to keep me and others protected and healthy, often facing unimaginable challenges and stress. As an advocate for their mental well-being, I want to help create a culture that respects and prioritizes the mental health of those who selflessly serve and protect us while bringing to light the endless thoughts and feelings they may keep hidden and be battling with daily.
First, I researched images to use for the agencies. There is a nurse/doctor, a police officer, a firefighter, a soldier, a dispatcher, a corrections officer, and paramedics. I then took those images and image-traced them. Next, I made the images into two layers for printing.
The next step was to find out how to express the thoughts and feelings they experience daily. I researched but also included thoughts and feelings I have heard over time. I then arranged the words into layers, one for the vertical prints and one for the horizontal prints.
The final step was to choose the colors that best represented and expressed the set of prints and start the printing process.
I chose black and grey for the two layers of the image. I then chose red for the words to help them stand out and create a striking contrast. This draws attention to the message while emphasizing a sense of urgency and importance. The boldness of the red emphasizes the text and symbolizes strength.
