Augmented Media Campaign
Battle of the Bulge Interactive AR Experience
Project Category: Poster print design
Fall 2024
Softwares: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Aero
The challenge:
In this project, students combine print design with an interactive augmented reality (AR) component to create a layered educational experience. The aim is to engage viewers with a topic that can be explored more deeply through AR, allowing the audience to interact with visual and informative elements beyond the printed page. Students will design a visually compelling print piece—such as a poster, brochure, postcard, etc. —incorporating an educational AR experience. The AR component should enrich the viewer’s understanding of the chosen topic, providing an interactive element that complements the printed design and invites further engagement.
Primary Palette
For the specific context of the World War II timeline, I decided to focus on the Battle of the Bulge which took place from December 1944 to January 1945. I decided to hone in on this battle specifically due to its historical significance, lack of mainstream knowledge, and the availability of references online to veteran testimonies.
Secondary Palette
This battle took place after D-Day and the liberation of Paris, at a point in the war where allies had made significant advances across Europe. The German forces were on the defensive and low on resources, but Hitler planned one final major offensive. Hitler’s goal was to split the Allied lines, capture the vital point of Antwerp, and demoralize.
Sketches, Reiterations, and Brainstorming
Final Design
Design Statement
The Battle of the Bulge AR Poster is an interactive and educational experience designed to immerse viewers in one of World War II’s most pivotal events. By combining bold visual design with augmented reality (AR) technology, the poster goes beyond static imagery to provide a dynamic storytelling experience. Each timeline section invites viewers to explore key moments of the battle through engaging multimedia elements.
AR features include:
- Veteran Testimonies: Authentic audio recordings from soldiers who fought in the battle,
offering personal and emotional insights into the human impact of war.
- Animated Visuals: Short animations depicting strategic movements, key battles, and significant events to help viewers visualize the complexity of the conflict.
- Informative Text: Detailed explanations and contextual information that bring clarity to the timeline and deepen understanding of the events.
This project aims to make history accessible and impactful, blending traditional storytelling with modern technology. The design engages multiple senses to foster empathy, education, and a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made during this turning point in World War II. By leveraging AR, the poster bridges the gap between the past and present, ensuring that the legacy of the Battle of the Bulge continues to inform and inspire future generations.
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The In-Person Viewing Experience
References
“TheBattleoftheBulgeAnimatedHistory.”YouTube,uploadedbyHistoryonMaps,8Dec.2020,https://youtu.be/DZmPM9s1mTs. “TheBattleoftheBulge:ATurningPointinWWII.”YouTube,uploadedbySimpleHistory,8Dec.2020,https://youtu.be/DZmPM9s1mTs. Pinterest. “Battle of the Bulge Map.” https://pin.it/6cve4nvBF. Accessed 8 Dec. 2024. Pinterest. “WWII Timeline Graphic Inspiration.” https://pin.it/5pXCXdAjH. Accessed 8 Dec. 2024.. Pinterest. “Vintage WWII Propaganda Posters.” https://pin.it/24ffFju7N. Accessed 8 Dec. 2024. Pinterest. “Battle of the Bulge Map.” https://pin.it/6cve4nvBF. Accessed 8 Dec. 2024. Pinterest. “Infographic Design Ideas for History.” https://pin.it/4WZY1qYwm. Accessed 8 Dec. 2024.. Pinterest. “World War II Resources.” https://pin.it/4JJ1MVeon. Accessed 8 Dec. 2024.