A single thread… a vibrant community
by Amy Watson
title
A single thread… a vibrant community
agency
ASU Library Communications and Web Services
client
ASU Library
Submission by
Amy Watson
Project Lead
Amy Carolyn Watson / Creative Director/Design Strategist
Contributors
Jordyn Kush, Designer Marilyn Murphy, Project contributor
In a world that often feels fast-paced and overwhelming, we wanted to take a moment to pause and recognize the strength and the resilience of each individual within our communities. Approaching the new year with a sense of cautious optimism, this sentiment is woven into the design of the ASU Library’s New Year card for 2024.
The card’s design is centered around 24 elegant lines, symbolizing the upcoming year. The eight points along these lines create a sense of wave and movement, a nod to the eight locations within the ASU Library, including the newest addition—the ASU FIDM Library at the ASU California Center in Los Angeles.
The tactile experience of the card is enhanced through the use of embossing and debossing techniques on heavy textured paper. Upon opening the card, the design emulates hope on its upward trajectory; the lustrous gold foil line represents how each person's unique journey contributes to the vibrant fabric of our community. This experience invites the reader to not only see but feel the warmth and depth of the message.
The message within the card, much like its design, is understated yet impactful. It speaks to the quiet but enduring resilience of our communities that is enriched by the presence and efforts of every member.
In its simplicity and elegance, this New Year card is more than a greeting—it is a celebration of the shared journey, a recognition of the strength within.
Amy Watson
As designers, we both experience moments and observe them; simultaneously inside and outside events. Through this, we strive for meaningful design, and it’s gratifying to see it embraced within the design community. We don’t just decorate messaging or accessorize concepts. We visually synthesize intent, tone, and meaning, often while bearing the load of being considered too late; we are magnificent. Only by standing up and celebrating every voice in our community do we continue to rise. Every year at ASU Library, we put significant effort into taking the temperature of where we are as a society, as an institution, as a library. In 2023, we invited people to step through the door and into our journey. This year, we celebrate individuals and how they come together; we do our greatest work by uplifting and honoring the members of our communities. Thank you for allowing us to contribute to yours.