Graphic Design I
Joan Dobkin (inst.)
05.17.2006
Text and Image: Making Meaning

Project Objectives:
Create a composition that effectively combines an image with a word or phrase in order to communicate meaning that wouldn’t exist without the interaction between the two elements.

Project Description:
Choose an image that has potential for creating an association with a word or phrase.  Come up with a word, phrase or short sentence that plays off of the image to enhance its meaning.  The image should cover the entire background with the text over the top.  Either a 10.75” square or a 10.75” x 16.5” rectangle should be used as the size of the composition in a horizontal or vertical orientation.

Design Rationale:
With the globalization of our economy many of the manufacturing jobs in this country have been exported to Southeast Asia, leaving many American workers without jobs.  My father and brother are both metal fabricators and our family owned business feels the effects of this change in our economy.  This poster is intended to both glorify the American working man while raising awareness to the issue of Americans losing their jobs.   “Endangered Species” is a simple yet effective phrase for describing the current job market in American manufacturing.  The pose of my two subjects is intended to show the tough, rugged nature of this line of work.  Meanwhile, their facial expressions show toughness, but also a look of worry regarding the future.  I want the viewer to feel proud that these men still build things here in America, yet also feel empathy towards the plight of the American worker.  The typeface is meant to look mechanical, much like the typeface used to stamp “Made in America” onto parts.  Its placement provides the best interaction with the image, drawing the viewers eye towards the two men in the composition.