‘A picture is worth a thousand words,’ is a well known saying for a reason. Humans are visual creatures. We cry, laugh, smile, and take action based upon an image. So using a specific illustration and style to represent your charity and messaging can move a person to take action and decide to support your cause by communicating so much within a matter of seconds.
A picture is worth a thousand words.
Each detail of the design needs to effectively communicate part of your story. From the artistic style, composition balance, shape, and colour used.
An illustration does not need a face to portray an emotion
Images are a fascinating creation and form of communication. You can show an abstract image of a person with his/her back turned towards you, head pointing downwards, hands behind back, and add a combination of dark blues and greys. People viewing the image perceive the same thing: they think of empathy, cold, and sadness even without a face showing. Now, take this same illustration of using a person’s back but tilt the head upwards to the sky, place his/her hands in the air in a celebratory stance, and use bright colours in a strategic way. The experience and emotions change to hope, happiness, and joy.
Different cultures view illustrations the same
These results are universal. It does not matter what culture a person is from. The public does not need to speak the same language to understand what an image is trying to convey. Visual, emotional communication is innate to each of us. Each person will react to an illustration you create with the results you want and feel a connection to your charity and other supporters. The results are remarkable. It improves your brand awareness, funding, and support.
It sets you apart.
Keep in mind, older generations like additional content with images
When it comes to your elderly supporters, the same theory applies as mentioned above but with additional information. Elderly people like words and stories to go along with the messaging. They like to take the time to read. So if you are posting on Instagram, you can simply leave an image and some content. The elderly generation I am referring to tend not to use Instagram. However if you are designing for a flyer to be addressed and posted to your elderly supporters, posters on display, or infographics on your website, then use the same recognisable illustration but design the layout with space for additional content.
Think about your charity retail space too. Does your branding encourage shoppers to spend money? Does the space feel fresh and aligned with your current campaign?
Hiring me as your brand specialist, working alongside you, diving deep into your brand means I create successful designs for your long-term objectives. Creating brand assets for you and your team to use throughout your organisation all year long. The assets are ready for use in print or online. I design for social media platforms, fundraising materials, websites, resources, shop window displays, merchandise and more. My work is customised to your needs.
Design to tell your story
[Featured illustrations from book cover design artwork created for Ben Evans ‘The Road Runner’]
