Ms. Huang’s water toy, created by artist David Grimaldi, serves as a reminder of Lumon’s control over its employees, even in their leisure activities. The toy’s bright colors and playful design contrast sharply with the somber moment of Ms. Huang’s forced departure, highlighting the oppressive nature of Lumon’s corporate culture.
The water toy also symbolizes the way Lumon infantilizes its employees, keeping them in a state of arrested development to maintain control over them. By destroying the toy, Ms. Huang is symbolically relinquishing her innocence and compliance to Lumon’s demands, signaling a shift in her relationship with the company.
Miller and Schlesinger note that the water toy scene is a powerful moment that showcases the psychological manipulation at the heart of Lumon’s operations. The juxtaposition of the colorful toy with the harsh reality of Lumon’s control tactics adds depth to Ms. Huang’s character and underscores the themes of power and autonomy explored throughout the series.
As “Severance” continues to delve into the dark underbelly of corporate culture and the psychological toll of conformity, the show’s visual art remains a crucial element in conveying the complexity of Lumon’s world. Through meticulous attention to detail and thoughtful design choices, the artisans behind the scenes bring Lumon’s oppressive atmosphere to life, creating a rich tapestry of visual storytelling that enhances the narrative and immerses viewers in this eerie and haunting universe.
The walls are adorned with colorful posters that add a pop of energy to the space. Each poster was carefully chosen to create a playful and inviting atmosphere for the employees.
The posters feature a variety of designs, from abstract patterns to motivational quotes. These posters not only serve as decoration but also help to create a sense of camaraderie and positivity among the innies.
The team behind the design of the break room posters considered the overall aesthetic of the space and the mood they wanted to evoke. By choosing vibrant colors and engaging designs, they were able to transform the break room into a lively and welcoming environment for the employees.
The inclusion of these posters adds depth and character to the break room, making it a more enjoyable place for the innies to relax and recharge during their breaks. The thought and care put into selecting and displaying these posters demonstrate the attention to detail and creativity that went into creating the world of “Severance.” The break room at Lumon is adorned with new posters, each designed to motivate employees in their own unique way. One poster, labeled “Hang in There,” features Dylan facilitating the Overtime Contingency. This poster was the only one that was scripted, adding an element of authenticity to the workplace decor.
According to Schlesinger, the decision to create multiple posters was intentional, as having only one would call too much attention to it. Writer Erickson came up with slogans for the posters, while illustrator Aviles and graphic artist Tansy Michaud worked on bringing the designs to life. The posters serve as Lumon’s way of motivating its employees while also shaping the company’s image to the innies.
The design of the posters is inspired by Soviet-era visuals, aligning with Lumon’s strategy of creating their own propaganda to differentiate themselves from other companies. The color scheme of the “Hang in There” poster, in particular, matches the purple chairs in the break room. This attention to detail is a hallmark of the “Severance” artisans and creatives, who stick to a specific color palette throughout the set.
Purple has significance in the series, appearing in key moments like Mark and Helly’s intimate scene in Season 1. The color is also used to depict different phases of Kier’s life, adding depth to the storytelling. The aesthetic of “Severance” relies on consistency in fonts, colors, and artistic mediums, with each element carefully chosen to convey Lumon’s message effectively.
The Fourth Appendix in Episode 4 introduces a vintage fairytale book style to depict Kier’s past, adding a sense of unease and mystery to the narrative. This artistic choice reflects Lumon’s brand identity and the underlying sense of menace associated with the company. The visual development of the show is a result of collaborative efforts to understand Lumon’s culture and build a cohesive world.
From clothing to accessories, every aesthetic detail in “Severance” is thoughtfully considered to enhance the storytelling experience. The show’s attention to detail and commitment to world-building create a unique and immersive viewing experience for audiences. The meticulous craftsmanship and creative vision behind the series elevate it to a new level of storytelling excellence.
