It’s that time of year. Autumn leaves blanket street corners that begin to display the haphazard decor of red, white, blue, yellow, and dark green regional elections yard signs. We see it too often, in too much quantity. Eventually, the corrugated plastic flags on wire syndicates become white noise in front of our eyes. Eventually, the emboldened names are dismissed, one after the next, after the next…
Nothing exciting.
Driving around Jefferson Parish this month, I have, however, stumbled upon a different kind of sign, which does capture and maintain my intrigue, visually.
Alas, a mere three elements send a direct message about this piece: “Pay Attention.” This advertisement, like many, puts a face to the name on the ballot, but it also brings a personality to life: suited up, pacing through the frame of his political advertisement in classic black and white. “Take this one more seriously than the others.” Maybe it is because the imagery displays its candidate in a way that demands attention and respect…or else. Maybe it is because of the intriguing use of antique black and white contrasted against a forest green backdrop. Maybe it’s because the sign is taller, more vertical…unlike those around it. For whatever reason I am psychologically or visually drawn to this artwork, as a designer, I pin my vote of admiration on this creative decision.
To better develop my opinions on the matter, I began researching the design of politics to hone in on what the public is murmuring about it. LocalVictory.com gives astonishingly insightful know-how (to the less-than-inclined politician/artist-on-the-side…) to attain campaigning design success. Articles include “How to Design Great Political Signs,” “The Top 3 Principles of Political Design,” and “Designing a Phenomenal Candidate Walk Piece,” to name a few. Who knew, right? Contributing journalists say, “Think Outside the Box, but don’t go nuts,” “Be Consistent,” and “Be outstanding,” for your color scheme, logo, and font, matter. Identity will make or break you.
Might I mention a congratulations to John Young, Parish President, who has been working with Design the Planet throughout his campaigning via web.
