Background:
The project originates from a deep-seated interest in the homeless population. Initially focused on how people experiencing homelessness were photographed and portrayed, the project's scope broadened to explore their living situations and the concept of "what is a home," particularly among young children and adults experiencing homelessness.
The project explores different forms of mixed media, including photography, digital, traditional, etc. The outcome is a series of postcards and billboards to help bring awareness to a severe global issue.
The project went through four distinct phases:
- Phase One: Discover
- Initial exploration of the subject matter, focusing on photography, hand-rendered/printmaking, digital manipulation, and typographic experiments.
- Phase Two: Combine
- Integration and exploration of the combination of various elements, including symbols of capitalism and compassion, layered urban homelessness concepts, and visual storytelling through typography and cinematography.
- Phase Three: Apply + Grow
- Application and expansion of the concepts developed in the previous phases, using advocacy, awareness, and mixed media to convey the message.
- Phase Four: Final Deliverables
- The culmination of the project, combining insights from previous phases into a final awareness campaign. This phase involved reflecting on methodologies, producing a mixed-media message, and crafting a final project for an awareness campaign.
This case study presents an in-depth exploration of homelessness, weaving through a variety of artistic mediums with seamless fluidity. It begins by critically analyzing the media's portrayal of homelessness, progressing to a deeper inquiry into the essence of "What is aHome." The focus then narrows, shifting from a broad overview of homelessness to the specific experiences of children living in these conditions, offering a more individual perspective on this significant social issue.
The artistic journey was characterized by a deliberate and meaningful selection of materials, mirroring the ingenuity often found within homeless communities. The use of everyday objects like markers, repurposed Amazon boxes, and elements from nature not only enriched the project's creative expression but also created a tangible connection with the realities faced by those without shelter. These materials, commonly employed by homeless individuals for creating signs and temporary shelters, added an authentic layer to the narrative.
In this light, the project transcends the boundaries of traditional art, emerging as a powerful narrative that casts a revealing light on the issue of homelessness. It invites viewers into an immersive experience, encouraging a visceral connection with the subject. This endeavor highlights the transformative potential of art, demonstrating its capacity to challenge and reshape societal perceptions and foster a deeper, more compassionate understanding of homelessness and how one can assist.