Description:

The project aims to delve into the surge of modern activism over the past five years, recognizing its significance amidst societal changes and technological advancements. Rooted in the understanding that protests are inherent to democracy, the project seeks to document and analyse major protests like the 2019 Climate Strikes, the 2020 Black Lives Matter Protest, the 2022 New Zealand Parliament Occupation, and the 2022 Roe v Wade protests. This exploration is driven by a personal connection to activism and a desire to contribute to the ongoing dialogue for change.
The strategy revolves around creating an informative and visually engaging book that serves as a comprehensive resource on modern protests. Divided into five sections, including a historical overview of protest movements, the book follows a chronological narrative to provide context and insight into each protest. Each section meticulously details the events, key figures, statistics, and media influences surrounding the chosen protests, aiming to inspire and inform readers about the power of collective action.
In terms of design, the project adopts a bold and innovative approach, drawing inspiration from both traditional protest literature and modernist design principles. Utilizing red as a dominant color to symbolize passion and activism, the design incorporates distinct section openers and infographics to enhance readability and flow. Typeface selection plays a crucial role, with each section featuring a unique display font inspired by the respective protest or cause, such as the 'climate crisis' font developed by Helsingin Sanomat and the 'Martin' typeface honoring Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy.
The crafting process further emphasizes the grassroots nature of activism, with the book meticulously hand-bound using red thread to symbolize solidarity and connection among protestors. The choice of materials, including natural paper and red cardstock, reflects a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic coherence. Overall, the project embodies a thoughtful blend of storytelling, design innovation, and craftsmanship, aiming to spark conversation and action around pressing social issues.