Graphic Design

We are experiencing an exciting period in graphic design with respect to the tools used, the multimedia platforms that are served, and the social, economic, and political situation in which designers can develop their agency. Considering the complicated contemporary situation, we claim that in addition to developing a compelling and unique visual language, contemporary graphic designers must simultaneously come to terms with changing cultural contexts and new technologies—which implies both working in different media and at the same time being open to transdisciplinary intellectual challenges.

Focusing on students developing innovative projects, the program reflects upon historical and contemporary examples of how design has been caught up in fraught and conflicted intellectual and political situations.

Emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, interactive media, screen design, and the ubiquitousness of animation – along with more and more the influence of AI-supported design – are at the heart of a program that nonetheless does not shy away from celebrating the handcraft of graphic design and the many analog forms of reproduction available.

Especially within the context of design understood as “world building,” it is important for designers to take into consideration the long-term societal impacts of their decisions and responsibility they share with those with whom they work.

Graduates of this program could enter the often overlapping fields of design, theoretical research, art, and social advocacy. They can engage in real-world projects with companies, NGOs, political groups, or community organizations but also collaborate with other designers, artists, filmmakers in research projects or in exhibitions or publications within the cultural or academic sphere. Potential career paths could include roles in the private sphere, in advocacy organizations, cultural institutions, public policy, or community development sectors. Additionally, graduates could work as independent artists or consultants.