Pista Ventures is embarking on an exciting collaboration with the School of Design and Creative Arts at Loughborough University, Vega School of Design, , Totem Design and Nelson Mandela Foundation. This collaboration is dedicated to exploring the rich domain of graphic heritage, aiming to uncover and innovate upon the ways in which graphic design has influenced culture, technology, and art throughout history.
This collaboration will be centred on placemaking and the relationship communities and citizens have with Nelson Mandela.
Challenges
The project navigates several challenges, including the vast scope of graphic heritage itself, which encompasses a wide array of periods, styles, and mediums. Additionally, digitizing and preserving delicate artifacts without compromising their integrity presents a technical hurdle. There’s also the task of making this heritage accessible and relevant to a contemporary audience, ensuring that the history of graphic design continues to inspire and educate.
Understanding
To effectively address these challenges, our teams begin with a deep dive into the historical context of graphic design, studying its evolution and the role it has played in shaping visual culture. This involves analyzing seminal works, interviewing experts in the field, and consulting archives and collections that house graphic design treasures.
Our Approach
Our collaborative approach combines Pista Ventures’ mindful research methodologies with the academic rigour and creative insight of Loughborough University’s School of Design & Creative Arts. By employing both traditional research methods and innovative design thinking, we aim to create a comprehensive framework for understanding and interacting with graphic heritage. This includes leveraging photography to bring historical designs to life in new and engaging ways.
Outcomes
The outcomes of this collaboration will include a series of interactive exhibits that showcase the pivotal moments in graphic design history, alongside scholarly publications that offer new insights into the field. Additionally, we anticipate developing educational resources and digital archives that will serve as invaluable tools for both students and professionals interested in the impact of graphic design on global culture.
Recommendations
For the wider academic and design communities, we recommend embracing technology as a means of preserving and promoting graphic heritage. There is immense potential in using digital platforms not only for archiving purposes but also for creating immersive, educational experiences that can attract a broader audience. Furthermore, interdisciplinary collaborations, such as ours with Loughborough University, are crucial for fostering innovation and ensuring that the legacy of graphic design is preserved for future generations.
This project underscores the importance of graphic design in our shared cultural heritage and highlights the potential of collaboration and innovation in safeguarding and celebrating the rich history of design.