All it takes : visually representing the nuances of homeless experiences

This research develops an alternative approach to depicting the nuances of individual homeless experiences in Sydney, Australia. Homelessness is a complex issue with a range of factors contributing to the rising numbers of people affected annually. Rough sleeping embodies one lived experience of the issue; however, this accounts for less than ten per cent of the homeless population in Australia. Despite this, rough sleeping is widely used to portray the issue through awareness-raising campaigns and other representations of the issue in graphic design, as seen in recent work by organisations such as the Exodus Foundation and Mission Australia. Such portrayals have been shown to perpetuate negative stigma and stereotypes surrounding the issue of homelessness as a whole. Drawing from recent insights by researcher Carl DiSalvo about design’s capacity to enact agonistic pluralism, my research reveals what is omitted in contemporary mainstream depictions of homelessness. Using cultural probes that explore the nuances of homelessness with people currently experiencing the issue, the research discusses and analyses the resulting poster series and website I have designed for the purpose of creating a more informed public debate and understanding regarding the conditions of homelessness and those affected by it in Sydney