We often take for granted the intersection of visual communication and public health advocacy. When I worked in sexual health advocacy, for example, zines and comic books as advocacy tools were devalued as cute but ultimately insignificant efforts, more arts than prevention science.
During the coronavirus crisis, however, the importance of visual health communication has shown itself in the overabundance of visual information circulating on the internet and in the scarce places we may visit. Stores have X’s on the ground to indicate where we should stand to practice social distancing; workplaces and dorms are posting signs on basic hygiene practices. The UN is even calling for informative art posters during this global pandemic.
A poster detailing how to limit the spread of COVID-19. From a dorm at St. Cloud State University
Not every message is created equally, however.