American Institute of Graphic Arts DC
Event Design
Designing Democracy’s Front Door, an event presented by AIGA DC, is a conversation inspired by the New York Times essay by Debbie Millman on the demolition of the White House East Wing.
Collaborating with AIGA DC programming directors and leadership board, I designed and illustrated graphics for the event.
The event is to be held on January 21, 2026.
When beginning to research and explore ideas, much of the thought and inspiration was pulled from the architecture of the White House, history behind it, and concept of going through the design process as an architect in “designing the front door”.
Drawing from shapes, textures of paper and grids, and incorporating a tone that felt modern and bold was a main focal point in the design style.
Initial Drafts and Explorations
Sketches, Shapes, and Textures
Concepts and Variations
Once a layout was chosen based on the initial drafts, we began to explore more layering, color palettes, and incorporating design styles and typefaces inspired by Debbie Millman’s work.
Final Design
Ultimately, it was decided to revisit a design more similar to an original draft. By adding a grid background, expanding the White House illustration, and simplifying to focus on key elements, we achieved a final graphic inspired by civic architecture, the design process, and Debbie Millman’s New York Times essay.
