By Elizabeth Gressel, Senior Graphic Designer
If a picture is worth a thousand words, then do environmental graphics now also speak “pandemic”?
As the world transitions from hibernation into phases of reopening, graphics are essential, even critical, for communicating local laws and expectations around gathering. We’ve transitioned from “No shirt, No shoes, No entry” to the recent pandemic-speak of “No mask – No service”. I’ve seen quite a few variations of this phrase, since it is rather awkward to say out loud, signage and imagery are effective and essential for sharing new expectations for social settings.
The challenge is, what is the best way to ask people to “Wear a mask” or “Stay six feet apart” and at the same time welcome them to a place? The definition of environmental graphics is, as stated by the SEGD, “to create a sense of place, help people find their way, communicate important information and fuel a dialogue between users and the spaces they inhabit.” It also feels like recently that definition has been expanded to include inspiring people toward social awareness and the health and safety of others.
In such a short amount of time (four months of isolation) some of the most interesting graphics have emerged. The best insert personality, charm, whit, and encourage togetherness. Sharing here are a few examples that stand out.
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WE’LL NOT, WE’LL NOT, SERVE YOU !!! #pandemia2020 #nomasknoservice #LasVegas #F&B
Mural by Tristan Eaton
Photo by Jo Ann Secor
Photo by Poster House
Poster design by Thomas Wimberly
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