PLASTICITY

In psychology, plasticity is defined as the capacity for continuous alteration of the neural pathways and synapses of the living brain and nervous system in response to experience or injury. It can be said that graphic designers use this same process of plasticity in transforming and refining design work. Designers alter a design in response to the experience of visual communication failing to solve problems, whether because of incorrectly applying design principles, cultural differences, or evolving semiotics. Plasticity in design is necessary for effective visual communication. Failure (injury) often serves to strengthen a design.

 I applied the process of plasticity to the print materials for the Coping Cat Program, a cognitive–behavioral therapy for anxious children created by Philip C. Kendall, PhD. Graphic design principles were applied to improve the usability, clarity, and effective interaction of Coping Cat’s materials. Altering type size and style, contrast, space, and color then combined aesthetic appeal with readability, presented a clear, logical information hierarchy, enhanced usability, and applied the influence of color psychology. With this alteration, users will effectively visually engage with materials that support them in the life changing process of learning to cope with anxiety.

This senior BFA thesis project included: redesign of the Coping Cat Program parent and therapist manual, logo design, branding, brand guide, business card design, and brand touch-points. A mobile made of origami kites symbolizing options for coping with anxiety, change, and resilience was included in the presentation at the senior exhibition.