Operating from 2020 to 2023, The Pandemic Post was a print publication that donated all profits to mutual aid groups and organizations working towards social justice. Each issue took on a distinct format — from a spiral-bound notebook exploring food to a calendar featuring art and poetry — allowing the content to shape its physical form. The identity system was intentionally fluid, adapting to each issue’s unique character while maintaining a considered approach that respected both its subjects and readers.
The identity confronts the virus head-on by placing it atop the logo’s ‘i’, acknowledging its weight on our collective consciousness. A high-contrast typeface that simultaneously feels modern and historical anchors the design with quiet elegance, while the overall look and feel remains optimistic, reflecting the publication’s diverse submissions.
The Pandemic Post’s visual vocabulary draws from 90s DIY zine culture and early 20th century newspaper coverage of the 1918 pandemic. Though firmly rooted in the 2020s, the design transcends any specific era to reflect the universal nature of the pandemic experience. Each issue was carefully crafted to do justice to its contributors while maintaining a handmade, communal spirit.
At a time of increased isolation, The Pandemic Post creates a tangible connection, something physical and cheerful that arrives in the mailbox as a bright spot in subscribers’ days. This emphasis on tactility extends beyond the printed publication into its digital presence, making both the physical issues and social media feel equally immersive and engaging.
The website continues the publication’s blend of polish and personality, incorporating the same expressive collage aesthetic as a natural extension of the print issues, with an aggressively bold green neon color that fully takes advantage of the digital space. It creates an inviting platform where visitors can explore featured organizations, browse online pieces, and purchase the publication with ease.
