my ability to communicate complex social issues through strong visual symbolism and conceptual thinking. Created for the poster competition organized by Marc H. Choko, the brief invited designers to respond to the theme “Pour un monde sans armes” (“For a world without weapons”). The competition addresses the devastating global impact of armed violence. Every year, tens of thousands of victims are affected by weapons worldwide, with innocent civilians representing the majority of those harmed. While armed conflicts continue in many regions, the issue is also present closer to home, with tragedies and rising gun violence affecting communities across Canada and Quebec.
responds to this theme through a simple yet powerful visual metaphor. The central image features a white bird positioned behind the vertical bars of various gun barrels. The bird which is commonly associated with peace and freedom, appears trapped, transforming the weapons into a symbolic cage. This imagery reflects how violence and weapons imprison the very idea of peace. The chosen title “La Paix prise en otage” (“Peace Held Hostage”) reinforces this concept. By framing peace as something captured or restrained, the message highlights how armed violence prevents societies from achieving safety, stability, and harmony. The visual approach relies on minimal elements to ensure the message remains clear and impactful. A restrained composition allows the symbolism of the bird and gun barrels to communicate the concept immediately, while the strong contrast emphasizes the seriousness of the subject. Through this project, the poster medium becomes a tool for awareness and reflection, encouraging viewers to consider the consequences of weapons in society and to imagine a future where peace is no longer held captive by violence.
