Body Image in the Queer Community
Approach
I began by researching body image issues faced by individuals in the queer community. I collected statistical data on body image and self-esteem, which was used to design the infographic. The graphics and design elements used were inspired by the queer community, and the colours used were chosen to represent inclusivity, diversity, and empowerment. The infographic was designed to be accessible and engaging, using clear and concise language to present the data.
Project Statement
This project was inspired by research about the relationship to food in the queer community. Much of the data about food and queer culture highlighted the heightened rates impacting the community. This infographic paints the narrative to first frame the issue, discuss the reasons and factors that increase the number of queer individuals. Information from my independent research findings was included as this community engagement was a crucial part of choosing content to present. Last, the graphic provides steps to lower these rates in the community. By ending the infographic with a new way to think about food and international resources, it leaves the viewer finishing off on a lighter note after a heavy topic, as well as ways to access help if they need it.
Primary Audience
The primary audience for this piece is the queer community. The use of the BIPOC-inclusive rainbow welcomes members of the community to view it. Additionally, the rainbow is a symbol and colour scheme recognizable to those outside of the community. This audience was targeted first as many do not realize the way it is widespread throughout the community. People within the queer community are reinforcing negative views about the body that makes pressure higher to maintain an “ideal body”. Discrimination and body shaming within a community only bring it down. For any type of social change to happen, LGBTQ+ people must elevate one another and collectively push for social change.
Secondary Audience
The secondary audience is those outside of the queer community. Specifically, those in a position to make a change such as family practitioners, educators, anyone working with the queer community, the media, etc. By giving tangible ways to make change for these individuals, they can start to look out for warning signs in queer youth and provide resources for them. Framing the lack of representation of diverse queer individuals may influence those in the media to increase representation of topics like this that impact the queer community.
Evolution of Hero (Main) Infographic
Version 1
Originally, this data was used as my hero infographic, as it highlighted the large impact that this issue has on the community. This was changed to the secondary data, as the isotopic graphic was more impactful to represent the imbalances that exist in society.
Version 2
This version featured an isotope graphic using people to represent the data to make the information more personable. Using people to represent the percentage allows for the viewer to think of how this impacts real people, highlighting the importance for action.
Version 3
This version has the data reversed, as it adds to the comparison of the 2 groups, using heterosexual youth as a “control group”. Information such as references, age of children and more detailed data was added to the caption of the image so extra text did not distract from the graphic. Additionally, a gradient was used for the colours of the highlighted isotypes, so they felt more connected
Final Version
This version was used to incorporate the colour scheme in a more subtle way. Additionally, adding black and brown to the gradient is more inclusive to the BIPOC Queer community. This gradient was then applied to the title and secondary graphic to ensure consistent use of the colour scheme.
Specifications
Grid
A 12-column grid was used for this design. This document started with 12 columns and was switched to 18 columns midway through the project. This affected the balance of the design and was switched back to the 12-column grid.
Text Styles
Conclusion
The Body Image in the Queer Community infographic was a successful educational tool that highlighted the body image issues faced by the queer community. The use of engaging graphics and data helped to bring attention to this issue and promote self-love and acceptance. The project is a testament to the power of design in educating and empowering individuals to create positive change.
Bibliography
1. “2020 GLAAD Studio Responsibility Index.” GLAAD. July 16, 2020. https://www.glaad.org/sri/2020.
2. “Eating Disorders in LGBTQ Populations.” National Eating Disorders Association. February 21, 2018. https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/general-information/lgbtq.
3. Kafai, Shayda. “Imagining Queer, Fat Food Futures.” Fat Studies 9, no. 3 (2019): 201-03. doi:10.1080/21604851.201 9.1641668.
4. “LGBTQ Community and Eating Disorders: Oliver-Pyatt Centers.” Oliver. https://www.oliverpyattcenters.com/lgbtq-community-and-eating-disorders/.
5. “Over Half of LGBTQ Youth in New National Survey Have Been Diagnosed with Eating Disorders.” National Eating Disorders Association. October 10, 2019. https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/over-half-lgbtq-youth-new-national-survey-have-been-diagnosed-eating-disorders.
6. “Relationships With Food in the Queer Community.” Mitch Wilson. https://mitchwilson.ca/queer-food.