Maizy Zeringue 2024

Abstract

SPR.MRKT is a multi-media animated short teasing a much larger story. We follow two characters who have also been thrown into a confusing situation. I utilize the backgrounds to show the setting and establish it's quirks. I would like to imagine the story being adapted into a comic with about 20-30 chapters, or an isolated series of 10 to 12. The narrative at large follows the two protagonists, Mel and Ryan, as they share the challenge of scaping a horribly constructed purgatory meant to ensure they both get sent to hell or oblivion. The 'trials' in this purgatory are expressed as a poorly run grocery store, with only the two of them, and their overworked 'manager', Quinn. This visual shorthand lends itself to plenty of metaphors about capitalism and individuality, and a central theme of my story is learning to value yourself and your labor despite engaging in systems that may not, like employment, school, and government. I chose to use a wide variety of mediums in this project because I am confident with traditional and digital mediums, and I was eager to further integrate the two in my work; as well as get some good portfolio material.