The Rowan Trust Logo

Problem: 
The Rowan Trust is an independent foundation dedicated to the pursuit of social justice across Ireland. Established with the vision of creating a fairer and more equitable society, the organisation actively engages in a comprehensive range of issues that significantly impact our communities and the lives of individuals within them. By collaborating with local organisations, advocacy groups, and community leaders, the Rowan Trust strives to address the root causes of social inequality and empower marginalised voices. Through research, funding, and grassroots initiatives, they aim to foster sustainable change and create a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Research:
The research for this project focused on studying brands that include grassroots activism in their identity and operations. I looked closely at how these brands connect with their communities, the strategies they use to drive social change, and how their activism affects their brand image. I also examined a wide range of visual elements related to civil rights movements and protests, including famous images, symbols, colours, and graphic design trends that resonate with activists and supporters. By combining these visual cues and themes, I built a strong foundation to create various potential solutions and creative ideas for the project. This research not only deepened my understanding of grassroots activism but also sparked innovative ideas for using visual storytelling to engage and motivate people around social justice and community empowerment.

Solution: 
As a unifying element in the overall campaign. This flexibility allows for adaptability to various formats, whether it be digital platforms, printed materials, or even large-scale installations.

The simplicity of the design emphasises the raw, authentic voices of the individuals participating in the protest. By stripping away excessive ornamentation, I wanted to highlight the power of the message itself—how a few carefully chosen words can resonate deeply and inspire action. The absence of complex typography encourages people to focus on their own creativity, making each placard a unique expression of personal sentiment.

Additionally, the use of a bold, vibrant colour palette aims to capture attention and evoke emotion. Bright hues can energise and mobilise, drawing in those who may not initially feel compelled to engage with the issue at hand. This aspect of visual communication is crucial; it transforms passive bystanders into active participants in the dialogue.

In parallel, the integration of the Rowan Trust name within the graphic serves a dual purpose. It not only provides essential context but also fosters a sense of community and solidarity amongst participants. By associating individual messages with a larger, collective identity, we reinforce the notion that these protests are part of a greater movement for change.

Ultimately, this design approach is about more than aesthetics; it's about empowerment. By providing a platform for personal expression, we are not just creating visuals but nurturing a collective consciousness. Each placard becomes a catalyst for discussion, a declaration of intent, and a reminder that every voice matters in the quest for justice and equality.

In this way, the final visual mark stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of activism, embodying the wit, creativity, and urgency that characterise grassroots movements across the globe. Back to Portfolio page.