Case study

Amplify Sidewalk Chalk

Sidewalk chalk messages of kindness, peace and connection drawn in public paths and benches, answering the prompt: what do you need to hear today?

Illustration
Photography
Art Direction

As part of the Disobedient Design course at Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Amplify Sidewalk Chalk was a project that explored the theme of ‘Amplify’ by bringing thoughtful messages to life in public spaces. This project encouraged us to reflect on the words and ideas people might need to hear in their daily lives, creating designs that combined playful nostalgia with meaningful communication. Using sidewalk chalk as a medium, I crafted a series of works that amplified messages of encouragement, positivity, and connection. Guided by the Disobedient Design framework, the project demonstrated how small, ever Through this project, I incorporated a series of thoughtful concepts and messages that resonate with what people might need to hear today. Below, you’ll find pictures documenting my work, along with explanations of the ideas behind each piece. Each chalk design is a reflection of how small, intentional acts can create meaningful connections and brighten the world around us.

Published January 19, 2025Tools ChalkView on Behance ↗

Course:Disobedient DesignMassachusetts College of Art and Design Instructors:Designed by Sofie Hodara and Martha RettigTaught by Martha Rettig and Tatiana GómezCourse Overview:The Disobedient Design course explores the intersection of design, activism, and societal impact. It challenges students to critically engage with contemporary issues through hands-on assignments that combine analog and digital methods.

Project Description and Objective:Amplify am·pli·fy| ˈampləˌfī | verb [with object] increase the volume of (sound); cause to become more marked or intense; enlarge upon or add detail to (a story or statement)Let’s get loud! Amplify is a verb that has become increasingly important. Which voices get to be amplified? Why? Who’s voices and messages don’t? What takes up our time and space? In this unit, we will look at projects that successfully amplify and disseminate a message. We will discuss how you can use your design skills to turn up the volume for messages that matter!Project prompt: What do you need to hear today?Suggested materials: sidewalk chalk and outdoor spaceMy Take:Amplify Sidewalk Chalk was an incredible assignment that brought me back to the simple joys of childhood. It reminded me of the power of words and how much they can brighten someone’s day. I explored the idea that there are countless things people wish to hear in their everyday lives—kindness, encouragement, and inspiration.Through this project, I incorporated a series of thoughtful concepts and messages that resonate with what people might need to hear today. Below, you’ll find pictures documenting my work, along with explanations of the ideas behind each piece. Each chalk design is a reflection of how small, intentional acts can create meaningful connections and brighten the world around us.