Tell us about yourself:
Maddy Cushman is an art director, designer, and illustrator based out of Kansas City, Missouri. After obtaining a dual BFA in Graphic Design and Illustration from Missouri State University, she began her career designing campaigns for progressive organizations and candidates all across the country, such as the ACLU, Governor Laura Kelly, and many more. In 2023, Maddy joined the team at Supper Co. and is working as an art director for a variety of food, alcohol, and hospitality clients. Outside of work, she can also be found seated at the pottery wheel or in her local movie theater.
What is the inspiration behind your poster design?
The inspiration for my poster is the action of lending a helping hand. I want to live in a world where compassion and solidarity are not just ideas, but principles guiding our interactions. Through acts of kindness and advocacy, we have the ability to uplift one another and create a more equitable and compassionate world. We all share a common humanity, living under the same sun, deserving of support.
Please tell us why you think inclusivity and solidarity are essential in our society…
Inclusivity and solidarity are crucial for building a beautiful and peaceful society. Every person on this planet has the right to be treated with respect, dignity, and compassion, along with fair access to resources and opportunities. When people feel valued, our communities flourish, and by prioritizing inclusivity, we have an opportunity to create a sustainable infrastructure capable of addressing critical issues like climate change, healthcare, education, transportation, and so much more.
How can we create a more inclusive design world and ensure that everyone is represented?
To make an impact on a global level, it starts with the individual. As designers, we must have a sense of awareness, prioritize accessibility, and challenge systems in place. But even beyond design, it’s important that we all take the initiative to learn and actively listen, so that we can amplify marginalized voices when we have the platform to do so.
