Titled, "Why Don't You Just Stay?", my work addresses the Irish cost of living crisis and the place that emigration holds in the country's culture, through examining the human experiences involved in those affected by these issues. Consisting of a fully illustrated 100 page risograph printed publication, a poster series and a pair of designed scarves, the work's aim was to build empathy for those affected by these issues as well as comforting and affirming their feelings. Using light-hearted illustrations and playful colours, this body of multi-media design work makes these stories and writings accessible and readable despite their sensitive subject matter, as well as focusing solely on the people whose lives have been changed due to these issues. Created with the help of extensive outreach and collaboration, this piece was always close to my heart since I began working on it, and only grew closer the further I delved into it.
