About Me

My name is Sabrina KempVanEe. I am a Junior at the University of South Florida, majoring in Graphic Design. Understanding Deaf culture and language diversity is crucial for a Graphic Designer because communication is an indispensable portion of design work. Designers must be able to communicate effectively with clients to meet their design needs. Designers who are well-versed in diversity can communicate with clients more efficiently and help prevent design work that encourages stereotypes.

Graphic Design in Tampa Bay

According to the Florida Department of State, there are around 340,000 deaf individuals in Tampa Bay, and around 30% of the population does not speak English as their first language. Many designs in the area are not accessible for language diversity. There are many typefaces used in promotional posters that use complex and decorative typefaces that are difficult to read. Simpler typefaces and proper kerning and tracking can help resolve this issue. Although the design may lose some of its aesthetic appeal, this will allow new English speakers to enjoy the information displayed in the design. All of the videos and articles featured on this website delineate universal and accessible design and factors to consider in order to achieve them. Diversity by Design focuses on inclusive design for the Deaf Community and individuals with language diversity.