This stencil design was created as part of a public awareness initiative for the City of Miami to address improper waste disposal in storm drains. The bold phrase “You Drink What You Dump” delivers a direct and impactful message, reminding residents that everything dumped into storm drains can ultimately contaminate our water supply.
The visual language reinforces the message through bold stencil typography, with the letter "I" in "DRINK" represented by a glass of water and a drop—symbolizing what we consume. In “DUMP,” discarded items such as a plastic bottle, straw cup, and even a piece of trash resembling a bone are incorporated into the lettering, representing common pollutants.
By transforming everyday waste into typography, the design confronts viewers with the consequences of their actions and encourages them to consider their role in protecting our environment. This stencil is meant to be both functional and educational, placed near storm drains as a visual deterrent against pollution. Its simple black-and-white palette ensures legibility on various surfaces while maintaining a strong graphic presence in public spaces.
This piece aims to merge design and civic responsibility—turning the sidewalk into a site for conversation, accountability, and change.
Dayana Piris
