The Gate

Project Description

This design research study examines a series of four paintings created by Anca Vatavu, an artist which explores themes of working-class life in Romania. The paintings, titled Little Mermaid, Sharing a plastic bottle of beer with my friends knowing that I will end up drinking more saliva than actual beer, The Ladder, and Hype, collectively form a single conceptual “object” that addresses social hierarchy, identity, and the societal values present within Romania's working-class culture. This study investigates the contextual and symbolic meaning embedded in the artworks and considers how they function as a unified narrative when viewed collectively. The intent of this research is to elucidate the role of design in capturing cultural identity and to propose an exhibition format that enhances audience understanding of these themes.

Methodology

The study utilizes a qualitative approach through interpretative analysis and contextual examination. By dissecting each print’s visual and textual elements, the research aims to uncover the underlying narrative embedded in the imagery and language. This methodology includes:

Visual Analysis: Each print is examined in terms of composition, symbolism, and surrealist elements to understand how visual choices shape the viewer's interpretation of cultural and societal themes.

Cultural Contextualization: The prints are considered within the broader Romanian social context, particularly focusing on themes of working-class struggles, identity, and social hierarchy.

Subjective Reflection: An autoethnographic approach is taken to explore personal connections to the themes presented, leveraging the researcher's own familiarity with the cultural setting of Bucharest.

Audience Engagement Strategy: To reinforce the findings, two exhibition posters are designed as part of the study. These posters aim to present the artwork in a manner that encourages viewers to engage with and reflect on the socio-cultural narrative depicted.

The Mesh

The outcome of this design research project is a meticulously crafted screenprinting mesh, designed for producing a series of posters that will promote an exhibition showcasing Vatavu's surrealist paintings. By creating a reusable screen for multiple prints, this approach not only amplifies the reach of the artist's message but also preserves the handcrafted authenticity that aligns with the essence of her work. The posters produced from this mesh will serve as both art pieces and communicative tools, inviting the public to experience the nuanced reflections on social hierarchy, cultural aspiration, and everyday resilience that define her vision. Through this screenprinting outcome, the exhibition gains a cohesive, tactile identity that resonates with the authenticity and subtle irony present in Vatavu's artistic commentary.