ID2 TAS

Sam Kizer (1111-04)

Target Audience Statement

InDesign Project Two

31 October 2011

            Autism is a complicated disorder, but people on the spectrum bring uniqueness, difference, and joy to all those they meet. This event celebrates these concepts through an evening of fellowship with like-minded people by promoting understanding and research of autism spectrum disorders. The speaker and the entertainment reinforce these ideals, as well. The intent of the message is to strike an emotional chord with the viewer; that is, allow them to recognize how they have been affected by someone with autism- in this case, a teenager. Additionally, I hope that each viewer will feel energized and excited to attend the event (hence, the use of yellow, a color often overlooked.)

            This event is aimed at middle-aged, wealthy parents (ideally married) of teenagers with an autism spectrum disorder, especially those living in or near the Charlotte metro area. Because the teen years and autism are a terrible combination, it is assumed that, while the parents love and are greatly affected by their teen, they are frustrated and having a hard time parenting during this turbulent time- this event should offer guidance and insight. The demographic may be stressed at work and/or becoming distant from their teen, and therefore needs some direction to be an active part in his or her life through middle and high school. The viewer is likely confused, but willing to take risks for the sake of his child.

            People with autism often think in absolutes- there is no “grey area”, so to speak. The use of grey on the poster reinforces how the parents think, allowing them to (hopefully) understand the difference and encouraging them to bridge the gap. The use of multiple colors conveys the never-ending surprises brought with autism, and the joy and complexity of the disorder. Yellow, specifically, was employed to excite to viewer and prompt him to purchase tickets to the event. The blue and black used on the ticket and poster allowed for other colors to “pop,” like autistic teens do with their personalities. The overall idea was to make the event formal, but still playful and innocent like their teenagers that it celebrates.