Danielle Boldry’s “Got Any ID?” is a series of ephemera, designed as a fun twist on personal identification documents. The various physical forms are graphic props, (objects that drive a narrative by living within a particular, curated setting). Boldry’s auto-biographical collection consists of different objects that can visually date back to the early 19th century, but can also live in the present day, to summarise a design practice and relate to identity.
Each prop has been designed to hint at the personal and professional interests of the designer, catering to a theme of classic literature, and establishing a warm, calming tone. The research for this project included the analytical exploration of real antiques, to obtain influence from historical documents, such as passports and birth certificates, as well as sentimental keepsakes, including postcards and tickets. Boldry’s series follows in the footsteps of the calligraphers, printmakers and artists of the time period it is representing, using physical methods and layering detail upon detail to execute the authenticity that graphic props require, to tell a convincing story.