Make A Statement

Besides the content of your portfolio, your influence on others can be displayed locally. It may be as simple as a photocopied flier on a bathroom wall, a zine, a mural or poster series—like Shepherd Fairey. In place of marketing a product or lifestyle, it may be inspiring (or challenging) the viewer to be aware or to act on your message.

  • Consider one passionate topic of your that you wish others would think about or act on next time—e.g. global warming, animal cruelty, over-consumption, social media, etc.

  • What medium or style may best connect with the audience you are trying to reach? Preach to the choir—in a style they already like? Or be subversive and ironic, using a comfortable image or style that juxtaposes ideas or is a parody—causing them to have a double-take?

  • Find examples, they find your own style or message.

  • Sketch ideas in your notebook—but eventually create a piece or series to develop further.

  • Get feedback and select a few to display in public (with permission or rogue) like Banksy.

  • Take photos or display a record of your creations.

  • Reflect on the process and how it made you feel.

Michael Wei