addis barge
graphic design, curation, cultural storyteller

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It Be Like Dat! (The Aestethics and Commodification of Ebonice (AAVE)
Exhibition, Publication Design, Generative Coding, Curation, Mulit-media

Awards/Recognitions:
Core77 Design Awards 2024, Design for Social Impact
Student Runner Up

It Be Like Dat! The Aesthetics and Commodification of Ebonics is my publication design that seeks to drive social discussion. Through meticulous research, I explore social, political, and cultural issues, and visually communicate the challenges encountered. This book acts as a narrative and a tribute to Ebonics, delving deep into its history, culture, and community artistry. By utilizing typography and archival imagery, I was passionate about honoring and preserving the essence of Ebonics.

Project description

I focused on crafting a visually rich publication & exhibition that serves as both a narrative and homage to the cultural and dialectical aspects of Ebonics. This wasn't just a study of linguistics; it was a holistic exploration of history, culture, and the dynamic artistry of a resilient community.

Publication Design

Typography illustrated the attitude, grammatical structures, and phonetics of Ebonics, while strategic archival imagery formed the pillars of my visual narrative. The objective was to honor and preserve the authenticity of Ebonics, firmly rejecting any notion of its illegitimacy or use for exploitation.

Exhibition Design & Generative Coding

I initiated a prototype envisioning user interaction with the publication, unfolding the story onto and around the book. I explored adding another layer to the physical book, enabling the viewer to engage with Ebonics through sound, touch, and sensation.

I familiarized myself with various technical tools like Processing and Arduino, experimenting to determine their suitability for the project mockup. I aimed for a seamless solution where technology would recede into the background, allowing the viewers to immerse themselves in the linguistic narrative of Ebonics.

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