Every September Bikes, Blues, and BBQ comes to Northwest Arkansas and some participants bring visual messages of racist and misogynist content. In order to combat this messaging in an increased era of hate speech, I worked with local sign painter and activist Olivia Trimble to bring AIGA NWA and Repaint Hate together to offer a counter visual campaign. This work consisted of art directing a series of yard signs, pop-up murals, and t-shirts. I also designed two of the yard signs (Ya’ll Means All & Choose Love). We worked to secure a sponsor for 300 yard signs that were given out free to the community. With nearly 1/2 a million people visiting our corner of the state, it was a great opportunity to share the inclusive values of Northwest Arkansas. During the rally, we set up a booth on to display and sell merchandise, with all of the proceeds going to further fund the Repaint Hate organization. Additionally, I worked with Moms Demand Action to set up an additional table for the Be Smart Campaign and we passed out free gun-locks.
Media Coverage:
KUAF Arts Beat
Fayetteville Flyer
Other signs designed by Aricka Lewis and Courtney Ulrich SmithÂ