A visual reflection on silence, vulnerability and coexistence in the winter landscape of the Tatra Mountains
Challenge
To create the annual campaign poster for the 2023/2024 edition of Don't Shoot on New Year's Eve! commissioned by the Tatra National Park. Each year, the initiative invites a different artist to raise awareness about the impact of fireworks on wildlife. The challenge was to communicate the fragility of mountain ecosystems and encourage reflection through an emotionally engaging visual narrative rather than direct environmental messaging.
Solution
I chose to focus on the Black Grouse - one of the most endangered and disturbance-sensitive bird species inhabiting the Polish Tatra Mountains. Known for its extreme sensitivity to noise and environmental disruption, the bird became a symbol of the wider consequences of human activity on wildlife.
The artwork was created using acrylic painting on paper and later refined digitally for poster production. Rather than illustrating the problem literally, the concept aimed to evoke empathy through the image of a solitary bird soaring above winter mountain peaks, emphasizing vulnerability, dignity and freedom.
Design System
The visual language was built around a restrained palette of cool blues, greys and whites, reflecting the silence and vastness of the winter landscape. Painterly textures were combined with subtle digital adjustments to preserve the emotional quality of the original artwork while ensuring clarity and impact in a public communication context.
Composition, color and atmosphere were carefully balanced to create a sense of calm and contemplation, inviting viewers to consider the relationship between celebration and responsibility toward the natural world.
Outcome
The poster was displayed throughout the Tatra National Park as part of the official campaign. The project became a continuation of my long-term artistic engagement with animal welfare and environmental awareness initiatives.
The work received positive recognition from conservationists, mountain enthusiasts, athletes and people closely connected to the Tatra region. Most importantly, it contributed to a broader conversation about respect for wildlife and the consequences of noise pollution during New Year's celebrations.
Disciplines
Art Direction, Campaign Concept Development, Illustration, Acrylic Painting, Environmental Communication, Poster Design, Visual Storytelling
