Polly Bond entry 2026
Category: Visual Arts / graphic design
Stronger Together Graphic
Goals:
The goal of the Stronger Together graphic design was to create a bold, affirming visual that communicates unity, inclusion, and shared strength within the Episcopal Church in Delaware’s LGBTQ+ community. The seven brightly colored, beveled lines were designed to represent the diversity of identities and experiences within the LGBTQ+ community, while their movement through a single gold band symbolizes the strength and closeness found when individuals come together. Where the lines converge and overlap within the band, the design visually expresses connection and resilience.
The gold band itself was intentionally designed to represent both unity and covenant, echoing the symbolism of a wedding band and reflecting the Church’s commitment to inclusion of all sexual orientations. Layered beneath the imagery, the words STRONGER TOGETHER—set in bold, overlapping letterforms and rendered in the same vibrant colors—reinforce the message of interconnectedness and shared identity. Together, the visual elements were created to proclaim that the Church embraces the LGBTQ+ community without exception and is committed to walking together in faith, celebrating the dignity of every person.
Audience: This graphic was created for LGBTQ+ members of the Episcopal Church in Delaware, their families, allies, and the wider community encountered through Pride events and diocesan communications. It also speaks to individuals who may be exploring faith spaces and seeking visible signs of welcome, inclusion, and affirmation. The design intentionally communicates across generations and identities, offering a clear visual statement of belonging, dignity, and shared faith.
Summary: Stronger Together is a graphic design created for a Pride Festival rack card and later adapted for use across diocesan LGBTQ+ communications. The design features seven brightly colored, gradient lines weaving through a central gold band, visually expressing how unity strengthens diverse individuals when they come together. The gold band suggests both connection and covenant, while the overlapping, color-saturated typography beneath the image reinforces the message of shared strength. The design communicates welcome, belonging, and commitment—affirming LGBTQ+ people as fully embraced members of our faith community.
Metrics: Effectiveness was measured primarily through qualitative response and audience engagement rather than formal analytics. The design generated positive feedback across diocese, with viewers expressing connection to the imagery and message. Informal responses indicated that the graphic resonated with both LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.
Back side of rack card