The use of text in the Civil Rights Movement was important. It was often a call to action or sharing information about events and protests. Striking sanitation workers in Memphis, TN, in 1968 used the phrase “I AM A MAN” in reference to “Am I not a man and a brother?”. This visually striking imagery of men walking in a row wearing this sign became a symbol of resistance. An activist and visual artist, Dread Scott, later referenced these visuals and phrases in his art. In 2009, he wore clothes from the era and wore a sign that read “I AM NOT A MAN”. It references the strike and the work that Black Americans have done for their rights. It is also meant to make you think and question if we have made significant progress in modern day. Scott forces his viewers to reflect and question today’s culture.
I wanted to reference this in my design about design. I made posters/flyers that reference this questioning and forced reflection. I wanted to reflect on the Declaration of Independence and the education of voters today. I created them in the style of the Civil Rights Movement era posters and used the ‘Martin’ font created by Tré Seals. The Black Panther Party made signs and posters to spread information and messaging. Some have the hand/palm iconography as a reference. The composition referenced the “I AM NOT A MAN” signs and other Black Panther Party posters that were made.
It is interesting to reflect on the power and use of design.
