Safe Harbor BFA Exhibition
The culmination of a semester-long journey brought me to the exciting moment of unveiling my graphic design project for Safe Harbor Animal Sanctuary. The exhibition, showcased at Southeast Missouri State University during the First Friday Art Walk, acted as a way to get the community involved with Safe Harbor Animal Sanctuary.
Putting Together The Exhibition
To introduce people into the exhibition, I decided to put a large vinyl cut out of the logo I designed for Safe Harbor on the wall. Next to the logo, was a pedestal with brochures and business cards for people to take, welcoming them into the exhibition, and giving them the important information on the shelter.
The trio of framed posters, arranged on the wall, showed the most important information relating to Safe Harbor. The first poster advertised Safe Harbor Thrift Store, the shelter’s main way of raising money to support their animals. The elevated middle poster, slightly higher than its counterparts, symbolized the shelter’s core message, giving the viewer a look into Safe Harbors mission to help animals in need and find them their forever homes. The final poster gave information on how to donate to the shelter and provided a call to action. Sitting under the slightly raised middle poster was a pedestal holding a donation box with an insert that contained a condensed version of the donation poster. This box allowed people visiting the exhibition to support the shelter and give donations.
Vinyl paw prints, strategically placed on the floor and walls, acted as a guided path for visitors, leading them through the exhibition. These prints, beginning at the entrance of the space and arching over the posters, not only added a whimsical touch but also served as a visual metaphor for the tangible steps one could take to support Safe Harbor.
The Reception
The exhibition reception, coinciding with the First Friday Art Walk and the University’s Chili Competition night, drew a diverse crowd. The vibrant atmosphere resulted in a steady flow of visitors eager to engage with the materials. The donation box, with its compelling insert echoing the exhibition’s call to action, garnered tangible support and contributions from those touched by Safe Harbor’s cause.
In the midst of art and chili, the exhibition was a great opportunity for the community to learn about Safe Harbor and support their mission. As the evening unfolded, it became evident that art has the power to spark positive change in the world. Safe Harbor Animal Sanctuary, through this exhibition, not only found its visual voice but also established a connection with a broader community ready to champion its mission of providing a safe haven for animals in need.