Date

2-7-2024

Department

School of Communication and the Arts

Degree

Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design (MFA)

Chair

Andrea Caresse Lewis

Keywords

Citrus, Florida, Oranges, Decline, Citrus Industry

Disciplines

Art and Design

Abstract

The adult population of Central Florida fails to understand the consequences of the decline of the citrus industry in the state of Florida resulting in lost jobs and wages, lost tax revenue, and a loss of acreage due to the increase in housing and infrastructure from the influx of people moving to Florida. The decline of the citrus industry in Florida is a large problem that not many people recognize as an issue. With nearly 6.9 billion dollars earned for the state of Florida along with the support of approximately 33,000 jobs, the citrus industry is a major contributor to the state’s economy (Cruz). With the decline of this industry, Florida and the families living there, could face huge economic challenges. Over the years, this problem has sprung from several different factors including citrus disease, inclement weather, and less available acreage due to population growth in Florida. With all of these factors, the citrus industry is struggling to stay productive and successful. Since identifying this problem, one solution that has come to mind is to raise awareness around the state of Florida. By raising awareness through design, we hope to assist in bringing back a thriving and important part of Florida’s history and economy. Most of the research done on this subject focuses on how to assist the citrus industry in a scientific sense. Few researchers have taken the approach of how to connect art and design to make the public aware of the seriousness of this situation. With the public’s awareness, there may be more support both financially and scientifically to aid in the efforts to save the Florida citrus industry from its’ continuous decline.

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