what & when?
poetry poster series april 2025
about
the main concept I want to communicate through my poster series is a feeling of understanding and calm through a temporary escape to simpler times in childhood. my poster will exhibit the same feelings of present misunderstanding that these poets emote in their works, and highlight the importance of your roots and where you came from.




poet understanding


yalie saweda kamara

kamara writes about the stereotypes and stigmas she experienced in oakland, california. she uses blunt imagery to juxtapose a seemingly serene natural environment. although mostly writing about these painful experiences at home, kamara consistently highlights the never-ending (black) joy that she and those around her possess and embrace.
russell atkins

atkins was one of the first american poets to arrange type on a page to convey meaning, also known as a concrete poet. he brought his readers through his own experiences of his home through describing the sounds and views of the city, exposing its imperfections.

kari gunter seymour

seymour utilizes imagery of the natural world of appalachia to create meaning, specifically drawing on the memories and lives of those who have come before her. Her poems are centered on themes of loss, family, nature, memory, culture, community, and geography, expressing the struggles of the people in her region.




hierarchy studies
I want my audience to feel seen and connect with the design of my poster. they should first be drawn in by the design of my poster, which will reference a distant and peaceful past. then they will read the title of the poetry event and resonate with the poet that is listed under the event information. lastly, they will view the whispers, or details of the event that clarify the time and place.





collection
found items
collage
collected & transformed items



design system ideation

reveling in memories, nostalgia, and the past







visual system





process





finalized posters






check something else out!

don’t be shy!


wagneln@mail.uc.edu / 859.803.6239