Inspired by my parents, who escaped from Poland in 1978, I hope to bridge the culture gaps existing between Poland and America. Having arrived in a new country with no contacts and two suitcases, my parents were able to prosper due to the help they received from kind individuals of Polish descent living in Polonia.
     Polonia, which means Poland in Latin, is the Polish American community, which can be found within many cities and towns throughout the United States. In its early years, the American Polonia was a haven for newly arrived immigrants, connecting the new cultures of America with the culture and traditions of Poland. This connection forged a new ethnic identity through folklore and foodways.
     With the aim to connect and teach, the oryginal brand captures individuals unfamiliar with Polish foodways by introducing Polish terminology and history. As well, it aims to connect those claiming Polonia to their roots by capturing the great graphic forms in Polish folk art — wycinanki, Polish paper cut-outs; pisanki, hand painted Easter eggs; and Polish folk costumes. These developed graphic treatments could be used to alter the perceived design and quality of Polish goods in America.

OBJECTIVE
To counter the normally harsh designs of the goods in Polonia by creating elegants graphic treatments inspired by Polish folk arts

AUDIENCE
All individuals but may be targeted to individuals of Polish descent who are more familiar with these goods

OUTCOME
A series of packaging for a concept brand titled oryginal and various items that push the graphic treatment further