Dumbploma
As my first Photoshop project, Dumbploma is a satirical exploration of academic and cultural expectations, designed as a mock movie poster inspired by early 2000s and late 90s comedies. It tells the fictional story of Maurice Oliver, a British student who travels to the U.S. for college, only to find himself “too smart” for the system. Teaming up with Daniel Rhodes, a quirky middle-aged man returning to school, Maurice embarks on a journey to “dumb himself down,” offering a humorous critique of societal norms and the arbitrary measures of success.
Dumploma – Movie Poster, Digital Illustration, Photoshop, 2022
In crafting this project, I drew on my love for absurd comedy and storytelling. I imagined the comedic duo of Richard Ayoade and Matt Berry as the perfect leads for Maurice and Daniel, blending their signature wit and charm into the narrative. Their dynamic personalities shaped the tone of the design, which features vibrant typography, exaggerated visuals, and playful phrases to reflect the film’s lighthearted, irreverent energy.
Dumploma – Concept Sketches & Story Development, Hand-Drawn Sketches, Pencil on Paper, 2022
Dumbploma represents more than just a satirical take on academia—it celebrates the creative process. From crafting the story to designing the visuals, this piece showcases my ability to merge narrative development with graphic design, creating a cohesive, engaging concept that balances humor with social commentary.