Artist statement
The collection focuses on topics of grief, anxiety and social connections. With its portable attributes, the cards can be easily disseminated to a wide crowd to help them cope with the stressors of life. Illustrations were inspired by the cover art to the book, The Pain of being Human, by Eugene C. Kennedy. Color palette was inspired by Mark Rothko.
Mental Health has become an important point of discussion in the past few years, but Generation Z has particularly been deemed the loneliest generation, according to the study conducted Eden Project Communities. With external factors like the Covid-19 pandemic, social media, and other external shifts in society, it can be hard to shift through life with the mind somewhere else. Therefore, I intend to use paper systems to take people away from their stressors and take in the moment that someone cared enough to lend a paper heart.
The Concept
In your pocket, carry messages of strength, courage, and joy. Unfold this card, and let the words and colors brighten your day. You're not alone; this little keepsake is a reminder that there's beauty in every moment.
"Impact someone's life with a simple gesture, for in the smallest act of kindness lies the power to create profound change."
–Kennedy James
With just 8 panels, stories can be read in a mere 15 seconds. This format also serves as an excellent icebreaker for discussing mental health and fostering connections with strangers.
8-Bit Cards
Power of the Wave
1" • 8"
1" • 8"
There’s nothing quite as soothing as the sound of waves crashing into each other, yet in the fold of it, there is so much power flowing within the collision. This card is for those who crave affirmations. While it celebrates the beauty of the waves on the surface, it also symbolizes the untapped potential and beauty within everyone.
Gray Days
1" • 8"
1" • 8"
At times, things don’t go as planned, and this card is for those who find themselves exhausted by the challenges of their day. It provides comfort and a reminder that it’s okay to have gray days, as they can often be followed by the hope of a brighter tomorrow.
It's Okay Not to Know Why
1" • 8"
1" • 8"
I personally grapple with the tendency to let my thoughts fly and spin so rapidly that they can spiral into overwhelming anxiety. This mental whirlwind can be so crippling that it leaves a person feeling mentally drained and empty. Therefore, this card is intended for fellow over-thinkers; it serves as a mnemonic, a reminder to slow down and savor the present moments.
Lost Ones
1" • 8"
1" • 8"
While loss is a natural part of life, losing a loved one is one of the most soul-emptying experiences. This card is for those grieving the loss of someone dear; it serves as a reminder that their life was not in vain and that there was beauty woven through their existence, touching the lives of those they loved.
Nice to Meet You
1" • 8"
1" • 8"
An introductory card for shy talkers and introverts. A welcoming icebreaker for strangers, it provides a wide range of topics to discuss and opportunities to nurture connections through a simple interaction. So, why not take a chance on meeting new people?
Do You Need a Hug?
1" • 8"
1" • 8"
Grief is a common experience that people encounter in their lives, often resulting from a variety of causes that can make individuals involuntarily vulnerable. This card is dedicated to the nurturers; it encourages you to express empathy towards those who are grieving and extend an invitation for comfort.
Can I Buy You Food?
1" • 8"
1" • 8"
As a college student, food insecurity can pose a significant barrier to academic success. This card is designed for the good Samaritans among us. When you give this card to a college student, they will greatly appreciate the kindness it represents. Offering food to someone is a compassionate gesture that can leave a lasting impact on a person’s life for years to come, serving as a steppingstone to help them move forward.
May I Sit with You?
1" • 8"
1" • 8"
In an era marked by pervasive loneliness and isolation, it can be overwhelming to reach out and connect with others. This card offers an opportunity to bring two lonely individuals together. It can serve as an icebreaker, alleviating the pressure of extroversion and making it easier for people to connect.
It's Okay to Cry
1" • 8"
1" • 8"
The act of crying is cathartic and, at times, even crucial for processing a range of emotions such as grief, stress, anxiety, or joy. Unfortunately, it is often stigmatized for being perceived as a sign of weakness or an inability to control one’s emotions. This card advocates for the importance of allowing oneself to cry during moments of vulnerability.
Sunrise to Sunset
1" • 8"
1" • 8"
It can be challenging to stay motivated when things don’t go as planned. Often, this lack of motivation is caused by putting too much pressure on oneself, which can hinder progress. This card is for the achievers who need a boost of motivation. It’s a reminder that your best effort is always sufficient, regardless of any insecurities.