Greg Stevenson was commissioned by the Canadian AIDS Treatment Information Exchange (CATIE) for their publication called The Positive Side. This illustration is about how a low viral load can cut the risk of HIV transmission was art directed by David Vereschagin to have an overall optimistic tone. Greg says, "The candle was meant to imply a ‘re-kindling” of desire in both partners (one positive and one negative) while practicing safety and awareness." Notice how the very subtle ('Rothko-esque') variations in the background add beautifully to the mood of the piece.
Ian Lends Whimsy to Serious Subject
Recently Ian Phillips was commissioned to bring his humor and whimsy to a very serious story about bone health for the summer issue of Positive Side magazine. The story investigates HIV-related issues with regard to bone density. Bones can be healthy, brittle or too soft… Ian says, "First Goldilocks and The Three Bears came to mind. Then the Three Little Pigs and their houses of straw, sticks and bricks flashed through my mind as a better analogy. The smart-thinking pig built his house with bricks, demonstrating a proactive role in one’s health as the better choice."