PIECES OF THEMSELVESPieces of Themselves is a personal observation of death and dying in contemporary America. What started as a project attempting to understand the need and importance surrounding the costly funeral tradition in America became a personal look at death and dying in my family. The mementos that are left behind after someone dies offer both solace to those living with the loss and an opportunity to see those we only know as parents or grandparents as people we didn't know before we were born. In addition, we get to see a small portion of what made these people the people that we now mourn and grieve.
From traditional funerals to cremation and private celebrations of life, today's lifestyles allow a variety of ways to honor those who pass. But unfortunately, our digital world also creates an awkward platform where extremely personal information may seem less respectful given the communication platform. This played a big part in my grieving process, and I felt a need to communicate that in this project as well. Pieces of Themselves has become a tribute to four significant people in my life. Through this project, I came to know my grandparents a bit more fully. I also was able to have closure and understand how my teenage self handled the passing of those important loved ones. The project includes a book, a set of six posters, and a screen printed jumpsuit with the town my grandfather is from.
DePaul Graphic Design BFA Capstone 2022.
SCREENPRINTED ELEMENTS
