We Shall Overcome by John Brown VI

Day 11 — Poster posted on February 10, 2023

John Brown VI

Pronouns: He/Him
Located: Cleveland, OH

Tell us about yourself:

I am curious about emerging technologies and human experience and very interested in UX design. Outside of design, I am a soccer, food, and car enthusiast!

What is the inspiration behind your poster design?

My inspiration for the poster was the black communities indomitable spirit, culture, and identity. No matter what we have faced or what we may face in the future, our messages and souls continue on. I “broke apart” the message “we shall overcome” and left just legibile enough to highlight how our most endearing messages are there for us if we examine them closely and carefully.

Why do you love being creative?

The best part of being a creative is in the spark of a new idea, the rush to completion and handoff, and the positive impact you can bring to the world. It is one thing to dream and iterate the big picture but the ability to share it with others in a way they are receptive to is what I love about being a creative.

Tell us about your experiences in the design world…

To my surprise it has been pretty good. I think in general black designers are overlooked but within the black community I have experienced so much love and guidance. It’s created a comfort zone for me so that no matter what kind of work I am doing or where I am, I am comfortable because my cultural peers recognize me. That dialogue for me, has been invaluable.

How can we create a more inclusive design world and ensure that Black people are represented?

We have to represent ourselves, all the time and call something out when it isn’t right.

In general… How can we make more equity or equality for us?

In our personal practices and lives we have the ability to “level the playing field”. I believe in helping others as I have been helped myself. As a collective we have to cherish each other. Be a guiding light for those following behind you and be a student of those ahead of you. I don’t know if we will achieve equality, that would require the world to see us as equals, but internally we can do the right thing for the people we encounter. It all starts with being a good human.

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