By Heidi Trautmann

Graphic Design can change the World ….the students wrote on the black wall when setting up their exhibition at EMAA’s ….or: Design creates culture, culture determines values, values determine the future….it means that they have completely understood what they are studying for and what power they will one day hold in their hands to influence behaviour of society. It is not only that they learn how to use their tools and make a pleasant picture but it is more important to study the psychological aspect of each approach to the topic they are working on. What must a graphic designer know to be able to stimulate the senses of the target group. How much can he say with his design and how many words can he add. Less is always more, we know that. But where is the limit? 

Business men know the value of the perfect corporate identity, from the envelope to the button the client has to press, the recall value of distinctive design means success or …if badly done or none at all,…the failure.  Furthermore, people engaged in the media, international communication, in politics etc. depend on good representation.

A handful of students are now showing their work in this field, for example, posters for local museums (informative), pictograms for the Olympic Games in Tokyo and/or Sydney (fast and international recognition);  posters with personal messages to young people, with encouragements or warnings;  proposals for fashion or food magazines; corporate identities for special brands (importance of recall value).

I heard they had a great opening, together with the Head of the Department and their teachers. I am borrowing some photos of the opening to show my readers the excitement the students had in setting up the exhibition. I had to miss it, but had a good talk two days later with two young men of the Graphic Department. I hope they have invited some business people to show their ideas.

The exhibition will be open until April 09, always from 10:00 to 17.00 hrs.