Introduction
Promoting Literature and Tradition
The graphic design project “Celebrate Dia de Los Muertos With a Book” was created to play a central role in the library’s celebration of Dia de Los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead. This vibrant and culturally rich graphic served a dual purpose as part of a library display and a social media promotional tool. It embodied the essence of this Mexican tradition while inviting visitors to explore a selection of books that shed light on the cultural aspects of Latin America.
Graphic 1:
Design Concept
The graphic design for “Celebrate Dia de Los Muertos With a Book” encapsulates the spirit of Dia de los Muertos through a vibrant and culturally rich design. The focal point of this design is the traditional sugar skull, or calavera, which plays a central role. However, what makes this design particularly unique is the harmonious integration of the sugar skull into the typography. his design concept successfully merges tradition with contemporary graphic design, serving as a powerful and meaningful representation of the library’s Dia de los Muertos celebration and the literature it houses.
Typography
The term “Dia de los Muertos” is not merely written but celebrated within the design. The sugar skull is artfully incorporated within the font itself, seamlessly replacing the letter ‘O’ in “muertos.” This fusion of the iconic sugar skull with the typography embodies the essence of Dia de los Muertos — a celebration of life, culture, and remembrance.
Culture
Beneath the typography, the design further celebrates Mexican culture through the inclusion of a papel picado design. These intricate, cut paper designs, representing a traditional Mexican folk art form, enrich the graphic with additional cultural significance.
Beyond The Work
Achivements
Usage in the Library
The graphic was prominently featured as part of a library display showcasing books related to Dia de Los Muertos and Latin American culture. It served as a visually engaging introduction to the collection, inviting patrons to explore the rich cultural materials housed in the library.
Social Media Promotion
The same graphic was strategically employed as part of a social media campaign to promote the library’s Dia de Los Muertos celebration. It created a visual connection between the library’s physical display and its online presence, encouraging community engagement.
Altar de Muertos
LACC was privileged to host the Mexicans in Gainesville “Altar de Muertos,” a symbolic altar to honor the deceased, as part of this celebration. The graphic design complemented the altar and added an extra layer of vibrancy to the event.
Final Thoughts
Impact
This graphic played a vital role in drawing attention to the Dia de Los Muertos celebration at the Latin American and Caribbean Collection. It not only enhanced the physical library display but also served as a bridge to the digital world, increasing community involvement.
Lessons Learned
Designing for cultural events taught me the importance of understanding and respecting the cultural significance of symbols and imagery. It was a valuable experience in translating tradition into contemporary design.
Conclusion
The “Celebrate Dia de Los Muertos With a Book” graphic design project exemplifies the power of visual communication in cultural celebrations. It successfully brought together tradition, education, and community engagement in a colorful and meaningful way.
