CNN Digital
Life After Combat
Animated Explainer
This piece follows Kyle, a U.S. soldier struggling with PTSD after returning from Afghanistan. It’s part of CNN’s Life After series exploring personal change after trauma.

As Art Director, I worked with the team to create a visual language that felt universal and accessible. We used silhouette animation and visual metaphors to express emotions like fear, grief, and isolation inclusively, so anyone with PTSD could relate.

The animation used soft transitions and symbolic cues to reflect the internal struggle. These choices were made to show respect for Kyle’s experience while allowing space for viewers to see their own stories. The piece was released around Memorial Day weekend, a fitting moment to invite reflection and solidarity.


To learn more visit cnn.com





Supervising Producer:
Jacque Smith
Lead Producer:
Madeleine Stix, Katherine Jennings
Art Direction:
Elisa Solinas
Design and Animation:
Kelly Flynn, Taylor Su, Agne Jurkenaite
Sound Design:
Katherine Jennings

Awards: 
2024 Emmy Nomation for Outstanding Graphic Design & Art Direction

2024 Society for News and Design Award of excellence in Animation design

2024 Webby Awards Honoree