Mind Your Mask

proof of concept

“We are not defenseless against COVID-19. Cloth face coverings are one of the most powerful weapons we have to slow and stop the spread of the virus – particularly when used universally within a community setting. All Americans have a responsibility to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.”
- CDC Director Dr. Robert R. Redfield

Brief
Design a wearable that encourages healthier behavior (proper social distancing) during the Covid-19 pandemic. While many investigations into facemask design in light of the COVID-19 pandemic are focused primarily on function, there is also an opportunity to explore how form can encourage mask wearing among the public. Currently, textile design is experiencing something of a renaissance. This comes at a critical time as we investigate how patterns can communicate and express meaning in addition to being a beautiful artifact.

Solution
Mind Your Masks use the mask as a canvas. The illustration, texture, iconography, typography, and scale encourage social distance between wearer and viewer. 6′ is the recommended distance by the CDC. At an appropriate distance (greater than 6') the visuals are a beautiful combination of vibrant colors, interesting patterns, and hopeful messaging. However, when a viewer breaks the social distance barrier (within 6′) the detailed iconography and sub text becomes clearly legible. The ingenuity of Mind Your Mask is in the opportunity for users to wear textiles that, along with being a beautiful artifact, can also drive healthier public behavior and encourage proper social distancing among wearers and viewers.


Role...Designer & Art Director, Illustrator
Field...Environmental Design, Apparel Design, Textiles






Ryan Russell
rer190@gmail.com
814.880.6377

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