The visual history of HIV is powerful and particular. From early on designers gave form to urgent messages and critical stances. In 2012, Truvada for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) was approved for use in the United States (US). Truvada is an antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV that when taken daily by people without HIV can reduce the chances of contracting the virus by more than 90%. The advent of PrEP has created a radically new land- scape for people at risk of contracting HIV, as well as a fresh opportunity for redefining sexual health. This article calls for designers to be present and active in creating new visual representations of HIV and risk, and articulating what PrEP means socially. Specifically, the thoughtful use of forums that foster self-authorship, community-constructed meaning, and the distribution of diverse narratives can serve to amplify authentic representation and awareness.
Review of Isamu Noguchi exhibition, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, San Francisco, CA, USA, July 15 – November 26, 2017.