Too Common
An interactive exhibit experience for adults in Cincinnati that aims to lessen the stigma and create empathy around the opioid epidemic.
Research + Environmental Graphic Design
Design Methodology Studio- Fall 2021
Collaborative project with Mackenzie Huddock and Josie Roe
Primary Research
Our primary research was conducted using three methods. We interviewed Ohioans that have been impacted directly by opioid addiction. This informed the creation of three personas. We made surveys and observed online forums to gauge how informed adult members of our community are when it comes to the opioid crisis. In this phase, we came to understand the path from opioid use to addiction, and we realized that people are looking for ways to help their loved ones and become more informed themselves.
Secondary Research
We used the internet to conduct secondary and synthesize existing research on our topic. Here, we discovered that the state of Ohio is disproportionately affected by opioid use, and opioid misuse costs our country tens of billions of dollars each year.
Prototype Design Criteria
To educate individuals in an engaging and experiential way about the prevalence of the opioid epidemic, its everyday impact on us, and the
warning signs of addiction.
1. Visitors will learn they are at risk in the opioid epidemic, as addiction can happen to anyone.
2. Visitors will understand how people transition from prescription to abuse and learn about the warning signs of dependency.
3. Visitors will gain empathy for those affected by the epidemic, lessening the stigma.
4. Visitors will better understand the history of the epidemic and its local impact.
Experience the Epidemic
An immersive decision-making simulator that prompts users with various scenarios involving opioid use. Illustrates the nuances of the addiction cycle by directly involving the audience and shedding light on ways that everyday people experience hardships.
Video Wall
A wall that projects videos of notable figures and community members with experiences involving addiction and opioid use disorder.
History Wall
A collection of imagery and diagrams to explain the history of the epidemic and its local impact in Ohio.
Impact Wall
A tactile installation that provides a platform for visitors to share personal stories and words of hope regarding
the opioid epidemic.
The Brand
Too Common’s branding is simplistic to allow for the subject matter and informational content to truly be at the forefront for visitors. The primary theme uses black and red, typically paired with pops of blue and brown.
Graphic elements include dots, blurs, and gradients. Black and white portrait photography is used to emphasize the vulnerability of the populations most affected
by opioid use disorder. Lastly, the san-serif type used for Too Common aligns with our primary goals of keeping things simplistic, non-intimidating, and informative.
