Student Veterans of America (SVA) needed a visual representation of their Human Archetypes—a framework designed to reflect the diverse strengths, experiences, and approaches student veterans bring to problem-solving. These illustrations had to go beyond generic symbolism; they needed to feel intentional, nuanced, and aligned with SVA’s mission.
The challenge? Capturing these identities in a way that felt both cohesive and distinct while avoiding common visual clichés. Each archetype had to stand on its own while contributing to a broader narrative.
My Role & Approach
While I wasn’t the lead designer on the overall project, I was solely responsible for creating the Human Archetypes illustrations. My approach was rooted in understanding how each archetype processes and solves problems, which became the foundation of the visuals.
To reinforce the theme of problem-solving, I embedded a consistent puzzle piece motif in each illustration. This subtle but intentional detail unifies the set while symbolizing how every archetype plays a role in navigating challenges, whether through strategy, adaptability, leadership, or innovation.
📖 Symbolism with Depth
Moving beyond surface-level representations by using abstract associations to capture each archetype’s approach to problem-solving.
🧩 Cohesion & Individuality
Ensuring each illustration felt distinct yet visually unified, balancing strong individual representation with a consistent stylistic approach.
📏 Scalability & Usability
Designing illustrations that function across multiple formats, ensuring clarity in digital applications, print materials, and presentations.
Process
I started with exploratory sketches, experimenting with different ways to express each archetype’s defining traits. To ensure each illustration was conceptually strong, I began by brainstorming word associations for each archetype—mapping out abstract connections between concepts, emotions, and visual elements. This approach allowed me to go beyond direct representation and incorporate subtle but meaningful elements in each design.
Through multiple iterations, I refined compositions, ensuring that each illustration balanced detail, clarity, and cohesion.
To reinforce the problem-solving theme, I ensured the puzzle piece motif was seamlessly integrated into each design, maintaining a cohesive visual thread across all 12 illustrations.
Outcome & Impact
These illustrations became a key component of SVA’s communication strategy, offering a clear, thoughtful representation of their Human Archetypes. By embedding concept-driven design thinking and a unifying visual motif, I reinforced a core narrative: every perspective, every approach to problem-solving, is part of a larger whole.
This project highlights my ability to translate abstract ideas into meaningful visuals, demonstrating expertise in concept development, visual storytelling, and strategic illustration.