Call
Me Ghetto
Abstract Poster Design
This abstract poster reclaims the word “ghetto” by reframing it through the lived experience of a Black woman, embracing the strength, attitude, creativity, and survival often stigmatized by the
term and transforming them into something delicate, intentional,
and beautiful. The piece asserts that what has been labeled
“ghetto” is not something to erase, but something to elevate—reimagined as power, elegance, and identity on one’s own terms.
Original sketches and mind map included the most heard or first adjectives thought of when society refers to a black woman. Despite the many words, while ghetto is the most used adjective, a lot of these key words are used in a derogative matter. I realized I wanted to exaggerate the biggest standout word and make it as feminine and illustrate it in a way that makes black women proud and unbothered to be referred to as such.
VISUAL INSPIRATION
After finalizing the design direction, I switched to clay and sculpted a life-sized hand inspired by a “talk to the hand” gesture. With acrylic nails and a photo of a burnt-out blunt, the piece gives the hand a feminine personality while paying homage to Black women and everyday comforts often labeled as “ghetto.” The work reclaims the term as a positive, self-defined symbol of identity and pride.
