Graphic Digital Design Year 3
Lauren McLoughlin
ISTD Major Project Joybringer
My project was to create a book based around the simple yet profound act of
smiling. Neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, all create
an infectious loop of happiness within a person. Smiling releases these hormones to
the brain to trick the brain into thinking it is happy. I chose the topic of smiling as it
is something everyone can do, and unlike yoga classes or saunas, it costs no money.
The theme emerged within the research when I was looking at small actions that
people can do to contribute to their happiness… things people might overlook yet
have such a massive impact on happiness levels. This joybringer book is for all eyes.
It is not targeting any specific audience. The primary goal of the book is to leave the
viewers with a smile by the time they are finished. The book reveals unique stories
that many people typically wouldn’t have known, unusual facts, hidden secrets based
around the simple smile.
I decided that the book was going to be based around different famous smiles
associated with Harvey Ball, Mona Lisa, Acid House, Nirvana, and Charlie Chaplin.
Each chapter delves into each individual’s narrative, all interweaving with each other.
I chose these people as through research I found out some interesting stories about
the history behind these smiles, including the fact that Harvey Ball never
trademarked the smiley icon which led down a rabbit hole of legal issues; the untold
story of Mona Lisa’s loss of a child which reflects her half smile; Acid House’s smiley
icon came from a vibe Rampling got when at a party; Kurt Cobain’s hidden emotions,
and Charlie Chaplin was also a song writer. The text is told in the assumed voice of
each character and what they have said or might say.
- laurenemmamcloughlin@gmail.com
- laurenemmamcloughl.wixsite.com/my-site-3
- www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-mcloughlin-b79b462b1/
- instagram: laurens.graphic_design