Design Foundations Ink & Paper Transformation

Ink & Paper Transformation

Artist Reflection:

    In this project, I created a symbolic illustration on white bond paper using a Sharpie marker and pencil. The piece is a visual representation of my personal perception of life’s emotional landscape of the highs and lows, the struggles, and the journey toward redemption. I began by sketching out my ideas in pencil, allowing myself to explore different ideas and metaphors before coming to my final design. The use of Sharpie added boldness and clarity to the imagery, it reinforced the contrast between the dark and light elements that define the tone of the work.

The theme of the illustration is the nature of life, such as how we find ourselves sliding downward into difficult moments, only to later climb back up with renewed strength. I wanted to capture the feeling of helplessness, as well as the sense of accomplishment and hope that comes with rising again. To express this, I divided the composition into two distinct zones: the “down” side and the “up” side.

On the down side, I used jagged lines and aggressive motion to depict lightning striking downward, symbolizing chaos and emotional turbulence. A dark ocean with a shark beneath the surface adds a sense of danger and fear, showing the negative connotation of this part of the journey. In contrast, the up side features smooth, flowing lines and gentle curves. Fish swim peacefully in clear water, representing harmony and progress. The visual softness of this area conveys a sense of peace and positivity, suggesting that growth and healing are possible after hardship.

The contrast between black and white was intentional and central to the message. Black represents the weight and darkness of life’s challenges, while white symbolizes clarity, redemption, and lightness. To further emphasize the theme of redemption, I placed a cross at the top of the mountain. This element reflects my personal belief in faith as a guiding force during difficult times and serves as a beacon of hope.

Before finalizing the piece, I created three small drafts to explore how best to communicate the concept of “redemption.” These sketches helped me refine the symbolism and layout, ensuring that each element contributed meaningfully to the overall narrative. Through this work, I aimed to create a visual metaphor for resilience, faith, and the transformative power of overcoming adversity.