Overview
The "Autoimmune and Diet" publication explores the connection between diet and autoimmune conditions, offering an alternative way to manage symptoms. Inspired by my own struggles with Hashimoto’s Autoimmune Disease, the project addresses how medical professionals often dismiss autoimmune symptoms, misattributing them to psychological issues. The publication aims to provide readers with a different perspective, highlighting how dietary changes may ease symptoms and improve quality of life.
Process and development
The development of this publication was heavily influenced by the dark, surrealist work of Man Ray, whose photography often evokes feelings of unease and psychological tension. His use of stark contrasts and shadows helped me reflect the emotional experience of living with untreated autoimmune conditions—feelings of being out of control, misunderstood, and ignored.
All the photographs in the publication were taken by myself, with abstract and dark compositions to mirror these emotional struggles. I also created custom illustrations by hand, and using Adobe Illustrator, to add depth and complexity to the publication, emphasising the psychological impact of autoimmune diseases, except for a few vintage anatomical illustrations included for visual effect.
Adobe Photoshop was used to refine the photographs, allowing me to explore the interplay of light and shadow in a way that reflects both the surreal and unsettling experience of living with Hashimoto's. To ensure the publication was medically accurate, I interviewed a Senior Consultant Endocrinologist, who provided clarity on autoimmune conditions, grounding the visual storytelling in credible medical knowledge.
The result is a publication that blends the psychological impact of autoimmune diseases with creative visual storytelling, offering readers an alternative perspective on managing their health through diet.
Design and print details
The publication was printed on Heritage 150gsm (cover) from Falkiner Fine Papers, creating a tactile and durable finish. The typography pairs Helvetica Neue for body text (9pt/12pt) with Baskerville for headlines (9pt/18pt), balancing modern clarity with classic elegance for an accessible and engaging reading experience.
Inside the Publication: selected pages
A selection of pages from the "Autoimmune and Diet" publication, showcasing key designs and concepts from the final work.
Creative Exploration & Visual Inspiration
This section presents a collection of sketches, references, and experiments drawn from my sketchbook. These images reflect the random and fluid nature of my creative process—spontaneous ideas, inspiration from Man Ray, and early visual concepts that didn’t always make it into the final work. The sketches and printed materials served as a playground for exploring different styles, techniques, and approaches for the "Autoimmune and Diet" publication.
Disclaimer
This publication was created as part of a design project while studying at UAL and is based on my own personal experiences and findings. It is intended for educational and exploratory purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for any medical concerns or dietary changes.