within these walls

illustrated zine | 2024

illustration, design, writing

Within These Walls is an illustrated zine that explores the quiet strength of finding peace in solitude. Through layered imagery, hand-drawn textures, and intimate vignettes, the zine reflects on the tension between isolation and connection. Each page is a visual meditation on how stillness can be both grounding and alienating. a quiet search for belonging within the noise of everyday life.

COVER + BACK

The interplay of negative space, muted tones, and expressive linework evokes a sense of vulnerability, while the handwritten text offers a personal dialogue with the reader.

Abstract mixed media artwork with a grayscale figure, red thread, and geometric shapes.

Within These Walls was inspired by a summer SEMESTER in Japan 2024, where I took an intermediate drawing class focused on storytelling through visual media. BEING IN JAPAN MADE ME notice the quiet moments of stillness within chaos—the silence of a crowded train, the hum of cicadas at dusk, the feeling of being alone yet connected.

I incorporated layered paper, cutouts, and red-and-black color blocking to create depth and contrast, reflecting the emotional push and pull between isolation and connection.

Abstract art piece featuring a grayscale portrait of a woman with her hand raised next to a black and red backdrop. The setup includes red strings and a collage element resembling a flower made of layered paper.

A hand interacting with a mixed media art piece on a wall featuring a pencil drawing of a person, red string, and black and red paper cutouts.

Abstract art piece with red and black colors, featuring red strings crossing and a blurred, dark image beneath.

Abstract artwork featuring a pencil sketch of a person with hair on one side, and a composition made of red strings, black and red paper patterns, and a flower-like design on the right.

INSTRUCTED BY MITCH WieseN

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@ TYLER SCHOOL OF ART AND ARCHITECTURE