Alessandra Banal
Tāmaki Makaurau, Aotearoa
National flags have long been symbols of colonisation and division.
Often featured is the colour red, representing blood spilt in conflict.
Magenta is a unique colour not part of the visible spectrum of light. The magenta we see is generated by our brains – something innate that we all share.
The variety of circles acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of our species.
The compassion and human kindness we need to unite our earth is represented by inverted circles, coloured in magenta.
Interview with Alessandra
Postfossil: Hello! What is your name and where are you from?
My name is Alessandra, also known as Archi. I was born and grew up in Aotearoa (New Zealand). I am Filipino and have strong ties to the Philippines through my family.
Postfossil: How do you work?
I do a lot of research and planning before I start designing. A lot of lists, brainstorms, google docs, screenshots, bookmark folders, mood boards etc. Where and when I work is adaptable to my mood, sometimes I bring my laptop out with me in case I suddenly feel productive.
I did try drinking coffee once to see if it would help me work, but that mochaccino kept me awake for 24 hours. Never again.
Postfossil: What inspires you?
People, particularly other POC.
Postfossil: What are you up to right now?
In terms of design I work at Auckland Live, a performing arts organisation. Our current work projects include design for the International Cabaret Season, Kids Play the annual kids theatre programme, and Summer in the Square a free festival of music, dance, activities etc.
Besides that, when I have time I like to make music, go swimming and read comment threads on the internet.
Postfossil: How did you start the design process of the flag?
A lot of research and critical thinking. Even though I learnt a lot about vexillography, there were certain conventions I chose to ignore because they contradicted what I wanted the flag to represent. I had to think about what I wanted out of this project, not only as a designer, but as a person as well.
Postfossil: What do you want to express with your design of the flag?
An acknowledgement of the past while looking to the future. Though I should mention that the level of abstraction in the flag leaves room for many interpretations – which I strongly encourage.
Postfossil: What is your wish for the future of the planet?
Equal opportunities and upward mobility for marginalised communities and those living in poverty. Especially when it comes to race and class.
Until we can leave this planet and/or abandon our physical forms… I would love to see the world shift to more sustainable resources, and make the preservation of our planet a priority. It can be overwhelming, feeling helpless in the face of all these problems. But there are people doing great work that we can help right now. Other than finding these organisations. Simple actions like enrolling to vote, signing petitions, calling out microaggressions, and learning to be called out in return are all part of our responsibility to create positive change.
