Abstract

Following the 2016 Presidential Election, I created a campaign for the American public to become more aware of its own actions and of others. Executed in large propaganda-like letters, this piece commands the viewer to keep an eye on the world around them. This lead to a 12' x 12' Installation of over 34,000 googly eyes forming the words "Stay Woke". The piece debuted in Chicago's Typeforce 8 show, and is now exhibited publicly at Block 37 through the Chicago Design Museum. Winner of the 2018 Print Regional Design Awards and Society of Typographic Art's 2017 STA100 Award.

Concept

“Stay Woke, derived from the phrase ‘stay awake,’ is an Internet slang term often used to demonstrate the need for awareness of an issue, particularly those relating to social justice... The term is also used ironically in a similar manner to ‘Wake up, Sheeple’.” 
—knowyourmeme.com, a web archive of internet slang

In current times of turmoil, indecision, and opposing views, now more than ever there is a need for society to be mindful of what is being said and done in our world. The idea of being woke or aware, particularly—but certainly not exclusively—pertains to our changing political landscape.

Cultural implications of being "Woke"

For further reading, see this article from the Oxford Dictionary on the term's historic significance and revitalized, sanitized, interpretation.

Inspiration

WPA Posters proved to be an inspiration. Googly eyes added satirical contrast.

Printed poster

Printed with the help of Delicious Design League. A custom processing application was created by Stafan Draht to have variable control over the composition of the eye symbols.