60. WINK
Designers at Wink make a point to tackle at least one cause or pro bono project each year, and in 2005 they were contacted by more than one organization raising money for hurricane victims. Wink partner Scott Thares created this poignant image for 25 Above Water—an online art sale and exhibition with proceeds going to the American Red Cross.

The goal was to design a poster that expressed his feelings about the natural disaster and its aftermath. “When you first see the images of the catastrophe, you’re shocked by all the people in water,” he says.

Thares was struck by the irony of the situation: All this water and not a drop to drink. He decided to focus on the concept of living in water and came up with a rough sketch influenced by the style of artist Ben Shahn. Then he handed his ideas over to his wife to help develop and illustrate. To give the piece strength and a human focus, Thares chose to feature a single individual shedding a solitary tear. And the project’s title provides a final optimistic touch in the upper, left-hand corner: Hope.
Michelle Taute