Dear Stranger,
With Love
Life was tough in 2020. I proposed an interactive exhibition where others could engage in heartfelt conversation. Titled “Dear Stranger, With Love,” visitors experienced three stages of social interaction.
Branding | Design | Social Media | Events
Branding
Thoughtful and poetic branding was key for this project. Maintaining consistent messaging and branding was vital to advertising to not only art students but the University as a whole. The brand design included logo design, flyers, social media posts and planning, a gallery guide brochure, two stickers, signage, envelopes and stationery, prompt cards, and “comment to the artist” postcards.
Stage 1
Walking into the space, visitors encountered the first stage. The gallery guide and signage supported them along the way. A large and bold question, “How has a stranger impacted your life?” sat at the top of the wall, with rolls of construction paper and writing utensils sitting to both sides of the title. Attendees were encouraged to write their responses on construction paper and tape them to the wall. The responses were beautiful, unique, individual, and sometimes silly in their own experiences.
Stage 2
The main attraction, titled “Dear Stranger, With Love,” acted as the second stage. Informational signage supported those who wished to participate. Attendees were encouraged to take a letter from the wall written by a stranger and, in return, write one to take its place. Attendees were given creative materials to customize their letters and envelopes. It added a sweet and personalized element to the message they wished to convey. This offered a vulnerable space and encouraged a loving and open environment for strangers who needed it. I am a firm believer in fate and was pleased to hear many people pulled letters they felt were really meant for them. Surprisingly, more letters were left at the end than there were at the beginning.
Stage 3
“Meet a Stranger” was an intimidating experience for those who felt courageous. It was a space that inspired thoughtful conversation with supportive prompt cards. Nothing tangible could be gained from it like the previous two stages. It created new meaning to an everyday occurance.
The comments and responses were overwhelmingly positive.
Attendees were encouraged to submit their thoughts and experiences of the exhibit on the designed “comments to the artist” cards. Names were not necessary, as I wanted those who commented to feel free in their words. It offered me great reflection as an artist and an even greater reward.
Note: some comments were left out due to content sensitivity
