Week 102024.11.18-11.22
Concept of Holding On
Drawing from playful and creative signage found in modern settings, the "crossing legs" visual concept was introduced. This progressive design escalates in intensity, symbolizing the discomfort and increasing frustration of waiting in line. The design was further influenced by abstract, minimalist approaches seen in contemporary restroom signs, where clean geometric shapes are used to convey a message. The "crossing legs" motif evolved into an abstract symbol, maintaining simplicity while effectively communicating the experience of waiting.
Poster Design
This poster highlights the gender disparity in restroom usage times, where men spend an average of 39 seconds, while women take 1:29 seconds.
Rational male and female restroom signs are paired with timers: 39s for men and 1:29 for women. This visual emphasizes the time difference directly.
A progressive crossing legs graphic on the women's side symbolizes discomfort and urgency, usually representing the longer waiting times.
An interactive flip number timer on the women's side allows viewers to experience the prolonged waiting time, creating a tangible connection to the issue.
Zine
The Time Using Folding Mechanism to Visually Highlight Restroom Inequalities.
Front: Men’s ease is shown with an open pathway, while women’s long queues unfold dramatically.
Back: Explains the causes, including biased stall allocation, biological needs, and lack of action from male-dominated management.
This design combines striking visuals with clear information to raise awareness about restroom inequity.
Signs
I placed these signs in public restrooms to create a direct connection to the experience. The female restroom sign starts off normal, but as the queue lengthens, the "crossing legs" symbol progressively intensifies, visually illustrating the discomfort and urgency that builds with the waiting time. This dynamic progression serves to raise awareness about the gender disparity in restroom usage and waiting times.
Display