Everything Has Opened Up Auspiciously

Authors

Lucy Miles, University of DaytonFollow

Files

Description

Dimensions: 30 inches wide, 36 inches tall
Inkjet on matte paper, printed on both sides
Created using Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, watercolor, and handwritten calligraphy

Artist's narrative: Paul Laurence Dunbar's Letter 74 is a beautifully composed note to his mother that focuses on his journey aboard Steamship Ambrosia. Dunbar starts his letter off by addressing his determination and hope that “everything [is] opening up auspiciously” and goes on to describe the trials and tribulations that he is facing. Through the delicate media of watercolor and intricate typography, the delicacy of human life is showcased while emphasizing Dunbar's positivity and determination. The type illuminates the complexities and interplay of Dunbar's emotions alongside the muted colors that transition into more dark and gloomy tones. Intertwining the typefaces Adriene and Patelo, designed by Marconi Lima, helps emphasize the formality and emotion within his letter to his mother.

Publication Date

Fall 10-23-2023

Keywords

Paul Laurence Dunbar, Ohio history, Typography, Graphic Design, Art and Design

Disciplines

Arts and Humanities

Comments

Copyright © 2023 by the artist.

Recommended Citation

Miles, Lucy, "Everything Has Opened Up Auspiciously" (2023). Life in Letters: A Typographic Poster Exhibition Featuring Paul Laurence Dunbar. 6.
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/stu_vad_dunbarletters/6