“Bernie” is a series of illustrations designed for an article discussing the 2016 United States Presidential election meant for display on multiple media platforms.

The stylistic choices made in this project were heavily influenced by the social climate of the time. Bernie Sanders, a virtually unknown political, shot into prominence as a voice to bridge the growing divide between liberal and conservative. He ended up being deified as an unassuming, almost comical hero: a man who looked and moved like a grandpa but spoke with the optimism and vigor of a new graduate. The final design emphasized both of these character aspects - bright, youthful colors and exaggerated patterns placed against dull greys and whites, creating an exciting contrast that makes both sides of the character more noticeable.