The assignment was to research a specific issue/cause—in this case, the cruelty of using cosmetic testing on animals—and effectively communicate said issue through a conceptual poster design using color, illustration styles, texture, form, and composition. In sum, the poster should evoke the design processes and techniques learned throughout the semester, successfully implementing them into our final piece.

Given the fast paced nature of the project, it was critical to articulate our ideas as efficiently as possible, prompting me to use computer rendering earlier throughout the process. The soap concept was tricker given its more complex, subtle cues to the issue. So, in order to strengthen the message alongside the dying rabbits, I used the syringe and lab equipment to evoke the 'testing' and cruelty. I use a sweeter, playful style of illustration and color to not only pull the viewer in, but create a sense of contrast and duality between the issue and the design. Given the complexity of the design, I had to rearrange the composition in order for the type to work in a simpler, classic arrangement. Lastly, I added a foggier, grain texture to the bubbles in order to create a less obvious visual of the rabbits. The resulting image is a reflection of the very message it is articulating—theres more happening than meets the eye.

The overall reaction was positive from both peers and professor. The composition and illustration style were well received.