Poor Chip
The "Poor King" graffiti is an iconic symbol deeply ingrained in the visual landscape of Essex County, New Jersey. This enigmatic image, featuring a crowned figure with a sorrowful expression, has captivated residents and passersby for decades, adorning parkways, vacant street blocks, and urban corners throughout the area. Its widespread recognition spans age groups from 20 to 45, highlighting its enduring impact on the local community. The image's ambiguity allows for multiple interpretations, ranging from a symbol of resilience to an emblem of contradiction between outward success and inner turmoil.
As a native of the area, my relationship with the "Poor King" has evolved from childhood curiosity to adult contemplation. Initially intrigued by the paradox of a crowned yet unhappy figure, I later came to view it as a powerful metaphor for personal struggles and aspirations. During my transition to New York, the image took on new significance, mirroring my own complex emotions of achievement tinged with discontent. The "Poor King" stands as a testament to the rich street art culture of Essex County and serves as a visual touchstone for locals and visitors alike, demonstrating the power of street art to evoke emotion, spark dialogue, and create lasting connections within a community.
Article Link: https://jordan-allen-tiw.medium.com/on-poor-kings-graffiti-in-newark-new-jersey-2-2-3-here-19d5bb64c71c
In this project, I sought to elevate the "Poor King" logo by merging it with a creative and luxurious aesthetic while embedding a deeper, more resonant message. At the time of designing I was inspired by Balenciaga's Spring/Summer 2023 collection, particularly the innovative "chip bag" accessory that looked like a crumpled potato chip bag with the Lay's packaging.
This concept led me to explore a fusion of the chip bag design with the "Poor King" narrative. I wanted to address the types of foods predominantly available in lower-income communities and examine the ingredients within them. My aim was to provoke thought: Are people aware of what they’re consuming? Are these ingredients safe or beneficial? Through this design, I challenged perceptions about food accessibility and quality in underserved areas.
This concept led me to explore a fusion of the chip bag design with the "Poor King" narrative. I wanted to address the types of foods predominantly available in lower-income communities and examine the ingredients within them. My aim was to provoke thought: Are people aware of what they’re consuming? Are these ingredients safe or beneficial? Through this design, I challenged perceptions about food accessibility and quality in underserved areas.
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Created using Adobe illustrator, Adobe photoshop & Blender.