The aftermath of the DANA floods in Valencia inspired a unique initiative where design meets philanthropy. Squared, in collaboration with Gràffica and powered by Truyol Digital, launched a series of three limited-edition posters—Souls of Water, Solidarity Traces, and Boots of Hope. Each artwork embodies a distinct narrative: the duality of water’s force, the enduring impact of collective support, and the spirit of recovery. These posters serve as both visual storytelling pieces and symbols of hope, resilience, and unity.
What sets this project apart is its seamless fusion of creativity and social impact. The Designers for Valencia campaign mobilized the creative community, inviting supporters to purchase these collectible posters. All proceeds directly benefit DANA relief efforts, transforming art into actionable aid. The initiative highlights how design can foster unity and collective action, reinforcing the role of creativity in driving positive change.
Each poster was meticulously illustrated and produced using high-quality materials and advanced printing techniques by Truyol Digital. The A0-sized artworks were crafted to evoke emotion and solidarity, making them not just decorative pieces but meaningful contributions to a greater cause. The campaign’s success underscores the influence of design in rallying communities and addressing urgent humanitarian needs.
The creative process posed a significant challenge: capturing both the devastation and the hope that emerged from the floods within a single illustration. Squared’s approach balanced these contrasting emotions, resulting in artworks that resonate deeply with viewers and supporters alike. The project’s collaborative nature, involving creative direction, illustration, and graphic design, further amplified its impact.
Design Rs for Valencia has garnered international recognition, earning the Bronze A' Design Award in Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication in 2025. This accolade celebrates the project’s ingenuity, technical excellence, and its contribution to improving quality of life through art and design. The campaign stands as a testament to the enduring power of creative activism and the vital role of design in shaping a more compassionate world.
By turning artistic vision into direct action, Squared’s initiative not only raised essential funds but also set a benchmark for how design can be harnessed for social good. The project invites the global creative community to see design not just as an aesthetic pursuit, but as a catalyst for meaningful change.
Project Designers: Yana Okoliyska
Image Credits: Yana Okoliyska
Project Team Members: Creative Director: Yana Okoliyska
Strategy & Marketing Director: Marina Varlyakova
Illustration: Yana Okoliyska
Graphic Designer: Desi Todorova
Project Name: Design Rs For Valencia
Project Client: GRÀFFICA