Focusing on how masculinities and gender norms shape violence and gender relations.

We were approached to create illustrations for the report “Reconstructing Masculinities: Gender Dynamics After Conflict in Aceh, Maluku, and Bangsamoro Mindanao,” published by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Integral Knowledge Asia, and Conciliation Resources.

The illustrations aimed to capture the essence of the research findings and convey the emotional and cultural nuances of the regions studied.

Illustrations set the scene for the historical and cultural context of the regions, providing a visual backdrop to the detailed textual analysis. Men in post-conflict countries are significantly affected. Without care and support, their mental health deteriorates under the weight of gendered expectations.Visual representations of the report’s recommendations provide clear, actionable insights, showing community-based interventions and gender-responsive programs in action.

Each of the six key findings was supported by an illustration that encapsulates the essence of the research. For example:

Finding 1:

Depicts the shift in masculinities post-conflict, showing men engaging in care roles and shared domestic responsibilities.

Finding 2:

Highlights the role of family, religious, and customary institutions in shaping gender norms, with scenes from family life and community rituals.

Finding 3:

Illustrates the impact of conflict-related trauma and the strong demand for mental health and psychosocial support services.

This project allowed us to merge academic rigor with creative expression, providing a visual narrative that supports and enhances the written content of the report. Our illustrations help to illuminate the critical issues of gender dynamics in post-conflict societies, highlighting the impact of war and conflict on men and how families are affected because of that.

We are committed to using the power of responsible image making to support important social research and advocacy. This project handles sensitive and complex topics with the care and creativity they deserve.

Cultural Representation:

The illustrations prominently feature elements unique to Aceh, Maluku, and Bangsamoro Mindanao, ensuring cultural accuracy and relevance. Traditional attire, symbols, and landscapes were integrated to reflect the distinct identities of these regions.

Gender Dynamics:

We illustrated diverse gender roles and interactions to depict the shifting norms and the persistence of traditional expectations. Scenes of family life, community gatherings, and conflict resolution highlight both the challenges and progress in gender relations.

Emotional Resonance:

Our illustrations aimed to evoke empathy and understanding. By portraying real-life scenarios of conflict, trauma, and healing, we sought to bring the human aspect of the research to the forefront, making the findings more relatable and impactful.

Integration with Data:

Infographics and visual data representations were designed to complement the narrative illustrations. These elements help to visualize complex statistical information, making it accessible and engaging for readers.

Color Palette and Style:

We chose a color palette that balances warmth and gravity, using earth tones and vibrant highlights to reflect the seriousness of the topics while maintaining visual appeal. The style was kept clean and professional to align with the report’s academic nature.