Die-cut Design

I started this project in Illustrator, creating all the elements in black (see first image). Then, I reversed the design, using the black elements to create cutouts of a large black rectangle (see second image). To ensure the die-cut would physically stay together, I simplified and adjusted the design, connecting all the isolated black shapes together. (A laser cutter removes the white portions in an Illustrator file.)

 

Note: Originally this project was intended to be laser-cut into a thin slab of wood to create an intricate  die-cut design. COVID restrictions prevented me from getting it cut, but I was able to print it as a poster.