Acrylic Paint | Blender | Shoes | Illustrator | Photoshop

University of South Florida Graphic Design Student Exhibition 2024

A red and black climbing rope with a diamond pattern.

Walking from Sole to Soul

Walking impacts our well-being. I created three paintings by walking on the canvas with paint on my shoes, along with a book showcasing my relationship with walking. I also 3D-printed keychains, pins, and magnets in the shape of someone walking to remind people to go for a walk.

Full Book

Walking transcends the mere physical act; it becomes an immersive experience that connects us with our surroundings. “The Sublime of Walking” explores the spiritual, philosophical, and psychological aspects of walking while also examining the science behind its profound impact on our lives. I researched notable artists like JeeYeun Lee and Ellen Mueller to shape the visual narrative.

Two orange road signs, one with text 'WALKING: MUSCLES TO SHOES' and a walking person, the other with a sequence of a person walking, set against a background of trees and a cloudy sky.

To ground my concept, I scanned family photos depicting my early walking experiences and conducted thorough research on running and fitness magazines. I noticed many resources treat running as an exclusive activity, often presenting information in a way that can overwhelm beginners. My goal was to create an inclusive, beginner-friendly book featuring an intuitive layout and vibrant pages that keep readers engaged.

To further engage the audience, I designed and 3D-printed keychains, pins, and magnets in the shape of a walking figure, serving as reminders to embrace the joy of walking.

Abstract artwork featuring a hip bone shape outlined in black, with blue paint strokes around it on a beige background.
Abstract artwork featuring a hip bone shape outlined in black, with blue paint strokes around it on a beige background.
Abstract artwork featuring a hip bone shape outlined in black, with blue paint strokes around it on a beige background.

The color palette was inspired by road signs in my neighborhood. I captured photographs of these signs and meticulously color-matched them to create a cohesive design that resonates with the theme of walking. My relationship with walking is also expressed through three paintings created by physically walking on canvas with paint on my shoes. These pieces symbolize the journey and transformation I experienced, highlighted by the abstract representation of my broken hip bone. The outlines were skillfully drawn with charcoal, capturing the essence of movement and connection.

Process

Sketches for an early stage of the project

Sketches for an early stage of the project

Early sketches

Early sketches

Trying different layouts for the chapter page

Trying different layouts for the chapter page

These pieces symbolize the journey and transformation I experienced, highlighted by the abstract representation of my broken hip bone

These pieces symbolize the journey and transformation I experienced, highlighted by the abstract representation of my broken hip bone

X-ray of my hip

X-ray of my hip

A scan of my shoe to make a keychain

A scan of my shoe to make a keychain

The outlines were drawn with charcoal, capturing the essence of movement and connection

The outlines were drawn with charcoal, capturing the essence of movement and connection

Different layout for the first chapter

Different layout for the first chapter

I used Blender for the 3D-printed key chains, pins, and magnets

I used Blender for the 3D-printed key chains, pins, and magnets