No, I'm not f*cking okay: Memoirs of a Hospice
A hospice. A place and experience usually hidden behind closed doors. So hidden that we don’t truly know what to expect when we enter one, other than the common expectation, death. After my own experience in one I didn’t feel the experience should be forgotten, but embraced, to help others who are on their own hospice journey.
The symbols
I created a set of symbols to connect to emotions and circumstances that tie into the experience as a whole, in many ways.
The Fabric
Inspired by Ghanaian adinkra symbols and batik prints I created a symbol, which originated from tea stain rings, a nod to the placement of the pack within Hospices. To create a tactile and comforting element the pattern has been printed onto a satin material.
The fabric enrobes the box of memoirs.
The Memoirs
The symbols became the catalyst for a collection of short memoirs, written by those who too have experienced the Hospice in some way. The goal for these memoirs is to comfort others who are currently on their Hospice journey, but not in the tradtional sense. The writings are raw, not sugar coated. There
to break away from the conventional comfort we see when we’re going through something devastating, because they aren’t there to keep you happy.
They’re there to make you say “This is exactly how I am feeling too”.
The Booklet
The booklet not only communicates my story to the reader, but helps people understand how they can interact with the pack too.
The Mugs
The mugs provide a comforting, tactile element that prompt the reading of the card pack. They are displayed in the tea rooms/area of the Hospice for families and visitors.