My most recent project was The Science Museum brief, where I developed an online discovery tool that extended into a visual identity system for the museum’s online collection.
Throughout the project I struggled with identifying a clear concept and focus. I really wanted to build something usable, but at the same time I was doing this abstract project. Part of the issue might have been that I focused a lot on the act of browsing, and the experience of the website, when my actual interest and skillset is more revolved around visual systems.
Further I think the project was a bit too broad, and that I might have benefitted from having a narrower focus. What I enjoyed the most about this project was the animation experiments, and the attempt of using these to establish a visual identity.
It was also great to develop initial ideas and concepts based on science and technology phenomena.
This project, where I developed a modular typeface system, is probably my favourite project to date, both in terms of outcome and process. I loved spending so much time in Glyphs and letting my intuition guide me, whilst also being mindful of how the letterforms related to second hand furniture examples that were the foundation of the project. Although typography was a key factor for the enjoyment, I also think the development of forms and systems played an important role. Experimenting within an environment of limitation really helped me develop unique outcomes.
The conceptual development stage of this project was also very enjoyable. I liked incorporating concepts from other disciplines into my own project. Further, the visual translation from physical objects to graphic design was fun. The questions what is a democratic typeface? and what is a circular typeface? really inspired me, and I liked working out solutions to them – perhaps because I take interest in the themes of sustainability and democracy, but also because of their abstract nature.
In this project I developed SAMLA – a second hand fashion brand which tackled young people’s issues with buying used clothing. I enjoyed taking more of an art direction role as I attempted to build a business concept rather than solely a website and branding system. By choosing to develop systems for photography, product development and distribution, I ended up doing more of an entrepreneurial project, which felt quite rewarding.
I would definitely have liked to look further into circular shopping, as well as more general societal structures that can help us move towards a sustainable future. This could potentially be a good theme for the MA project, as it would let me do lots of research, but also open up the possibility for designing speculative shops, governments, spaces etc., which could let me explore projects similar to Modul.
Craftly, Grünerløkka, Yum Cha, Boats *not tupperware