BLACK HERITAGE
For this project, we were tasked with creating a design for a competition hosted by the U.S. Postal Service, highlighting individuals who have made significant contributions to the United States. As a veteran, I felt strongly that those who have served, especially within the military, deserve recognition and visibility. Since the project aligned with Black History Month, I decided to honor the legacy of African American service members by creating a piece dedicated to the U.S. Navy. This design became both a personal tribute and a celebration of service, sacrifice, and pride.
SKETCHES
During the brainstorming phase, I was flooded with ideas from celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop with designs featuring DJs and rappers, to honoring cultural icons in music and art. However, since the project coincided with Black Heritage Month, I felt a deeper responsibility to highlight the contributions of African American service members who have proudly served the country. As a veteran myself, this subject resonated with me personally. In the end, I created this piece as a tribute to the bravery, resilience, and legacy of those who served often with little recognition, but with immense impact.
THE STAMP
U.S. NAVY Service member
For this piece, I chose to honor Samuel L. Gravely Jr., Jesse L. Brown, and Carl Brashear three trailblazing African American servicemen who made history in the U.S. Navy. Admiral Samuel Gravely was the first African American to command a warship, lead a fleet, and achieve the rank of admiral, breaking racial barriers throughout his career. Jesse L. Brown became the Navy’s first Black aviator in 1948, flying combat missions during the Korean War and leaving behind a legacy of bravery and inspiration. Carl Brashear, despite facing racial discrimination and losing part of his leg, became the first African American Master Diver, symbolizing unmatched resilience and determination. Together, their stories reflect courage, perseverance, and a lasting impact on American military history.
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In this design, I used a wave technique to stylize the photos, giving them a unique, almost currency-like appearance that symbolizes both value and honor. This effect also helped maintain visual consistency across the layout. To further support the narrative, I included the roles these individuals held during their service as subtle design elements adding context and depth to their contributions. Wanting to stay true to the established aesthetic, I reached out to the U.S. Postal Service design director to ensure I followed the typographic guidelines used in the Black Heritage stamp series. This attention to detail helped me create a piece that not only stood out but also respected the legacy it represents.
Bonus STAMP
50 Years of HIP HOP
Inspired by the evolution of hip-hop music and culture, I wanted to create a bonus stamp that pays tribute to the movement that has shaped generations. This design honors the four foundational elements of hip-hop: graffiti, MCing, DJing, and breakdancing each a vital part of the cultural phenomenon that began in the streets and grew into a global force. This stamp is a personal celebration of the music and culture I love a tribute to the rhythm, expression, and creative power of hip-hop.
