Amidst a period of personal struggle, I came across the quote, "Is it better to speak or to die?" which sparked a newfound perspective and appreciation for language, specifically with how it informs our relationships and understanding of the world. 

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Oftentimes, people conceal thoughts, opinions, and expressions due to the fear of judgment, rejection, potential suffering, and other consequences. However, I realized that sharing these inner thoughts with others is liberating and opportunistic. Perhaps it leads to a better sense of self or other, brightens someone's day, or results in a stronger relationship. 

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For my senior thesis, I built and designed a website that provides a safe, artistic platform for people to share things that they wish they said or want to say. Users can upload a message with the option to include a related photo. There is also an archive with 700+ messages where users can browse other peoples' submissions. Select messages were printed onto 17" x 22" inkjet posters and arranged on wire lines with clips to create a 12 ft x 18 ft installation at the Yale School of Art. A laptop displaying my website was placed on a pedestal in front of the installation so that viewers could submit messages in real time.

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I opted for a black, white, and bright green color palette to emanate something digital so I could create this dichotomy between automation and human complexity. It was challenging to think of how to successfully accomplish this, but by including hand-drawn elements on the website and setting the tone with specific language in my letter addressing the reader, this was achievable. In addition, sourcing messages was difficult, as I had to find ways to promote my site to the larger community. Through social media posts, mass emails, and word-of-mouth, I managed to receive 700+ messages in the span of 2 weeks.

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The goal of this project was to encourage people to say the unsaid. I wanted to give people the chance to express themselves

in a unique way – to share language that would allow others to not only get a glimpse into their lives but to also connect and reflect. Overall, my objective was to work with hundreds of strangers to inspire people to unapologetically speak their truth.