This project involved selecting a topic from fields such as media and cultural studies, feminism, religion, critical race and gender theory, popular music, or surveillance studies. The chosen topic focused on themes of social awareness, challenging societal norms and comfort zones. After selecting a topic, in-depth research was conducted to understand its primary discussions, opposing viewpoints, and socio-cultural significance. Drawing from these insights, a conceptual proposal for a postage stamp design was created. This stamp visually communicated the topic’s core message, utilizing typography and imagery to make a strong statement.
The final step involved imprinting your rubber stamp onto a $1 bill. This action questioned the perceived inviolability of currency, underscoring the message of your design by choosing a medium universally recognized for its symbolic value. By stamping on money, you bring attention to the idea that your message holds worth and carries influence within the "social economy," encouraging viewers to consider and "spend" thought on the social implications of the issue at hand.
I chose to focus on feminism, a cause I’m deeply passionate about, and drew inspiration from a class I had taken on injustices faced by minority and oppressed groups, including women. During that course, I encountered a statistic that resonated with me: on average, women earn only 89 cents for every dollar their male counterparts make in higher-paying positions. This statistic became the foundation for my stamp project. I began by sketching ideas to represent this disparity visually, knowing I wanted to feature the number "89" on the bill but uncertain of the exact placement. To emphasize that this figure applied specifically to women, I also incorporated the female symbol.
When my final design was ready, I moved on to creating the stamp. This was my first experience with stamp-making, so I had to learn the technique of carving away from the material, which felt unfamiliar since I’m accustomed to adding to my designs. Working with the tools and stamp material presented challenges, especially when handling fine details, and I had to restart a few times. However, I eventually crafted a stamp that effectively conveyed my design.
For the final application, I chose hot pink ink, a color traditionally associated with femininity, to underscore that the "89 cents" figure was representative of women.
Through my stamp design, I aimed to spotlight the persistent issue of gender pay disparity in America. Despite progress, women continue to earn, on average, 89% of what men make in comparable high-paying positions. My stamp symbolizes this gap by illustrating that, for every dollar a man earns, a woman receives only 89 cents—a visual reminder of the undervaluation of women's contributions in the workforce. I hope this stamp will ignite conversations and encourage viewers to learn more about wage inequality and explore ways to address and bridge this gap for a more equitable future.
©Maggie Detchemendy 2023
