disrespect?

[monstergiggles]

So I'm graduating from High School in a week, and I'm drawing all sorts of goodies on my very white cap and gown. I'm also turning it in for an art final. But I keep thinking, it's going to suck getting bitched at because I didn't conform. And old mother fathers will look at me like I'm trying to disrespect. I'm only being myself, and I've got the right to show it, right? Anyways, just checkin what u all think. If u have any wicked ideas to sketch on my gown, don't be shy! Thanks for listening to me think!

[Reefer Rogue]

I doubt anyone will take it disrespectfully. If they do, fuck it.

[birdgirl73]

I think there are ways to make an artistic statement without being disrespectful. Just consider how to do it wisely, as befits someone who was smart enough to finish school.

Here's an actual graphic consideration. If part of your goal--and I'm guessing it is--is to have your artwork noticed by the audience at your graduation, you might try drawing fewer things and having one or two simple, bold graphic elements that will be more visible. A bunch of little stuff on your mortar board will simply look like clutter from the audience's standpoint and they won't be able to decipher what it is. But one or two symbols will be easier for everyone to see and make sense of. Graphic artists have to put themselves in the place of their audience and anticipate what'll work and what won't. Remember that there will be lots of folks at a distance in the coliseum or auditorium you're in, and there'll also be lots of video and still cameras. So you'll want to make the most of your message.

[birdgirl73]

P.S. Folks who're familiar with high school graduations won't be surprised at creative renderings on the cap and gown. That happens all the time. But know that if it crosses the line of what the school would approve, they can prevent you from going through the commencement exercise. One of my son's friends went through the effort of lots of decoration, some of which featured some fairly hostile stuff, and he turned out not being allowed to go through the ceremony, which was very disappointing for his family and friends. That's why I suggest staying within the bounds of appropriateness.

[monstergiggles]

Yeah, that's what I'm doing. Just a few big pieces, maybe a little detail here and there. I don't think I'll have a big problem with people, but it sucks that I even have to worry about it. Thanks birdgirl, for the input! Gotta go smoke a bowl! PEACE!

[birdgirl73]

Peace to you, too, MonsterG, and congratulations on your graduation! That's awesome.

[del...]

hell, there was a guy and grrl in my class at graduation who showed up wearing the standard cap and gown...and nothing else! totally bare under the robe (no shoes either) and it was a breezy day. this was at a lutheran high school and 30-some years ago...they still received their diploma's but were escorted from the line as soon as the powers-that-be found out and instead of getting them with us they had to wait for the mail...

[enthused]

lol...I'd like to see someone try this where I went to HS, they wouldn't let you walk.