Background
Seattle University’s Digital Design program holds an annual exhibition to showcase graduating students’ work. It is a collaborative effort between cohort members, and a bonding experience that teaches us to work in a team. In addition to a showcase, it is also a fundraising event that raises money for the charity chosen by the cohort. As curator, my role was to decide on what type of work would go in and to filter out any inappropriate submissions. In addition to these responsibilities, I was also in charge of designing the exhibition space.
The Content
Each student submits three specific projects from their time in the program, along with any additional work they’d like to display. This year’s requirements were large-print infographics, another print piece (editorial design or poster), and a 3D product design. Students were encouraged to update or improve any pieces they wanted to submit. Some pieces had to be changed or rejected because they did not fit the submission requirements.
The Space
As curator I worked closely with the installation team and installation lead Branwen Hartley who acted as my co-curator. Together we took measurements of the space and made a digital drawing of the Vanchon Gallery. After discovering what we had available for the space and exploring possibilities, we disused the space with the team.
The Digital Design Exhibition has had consistent features for years. For instance, the back wall is painted a solid color and the logo placed in the center, there is a table to display 3D products, and the front wall is used for retail space. This year, we did things differently. Rather than painting the wall, we projected a video with our logo. 3D objects were placed on pedestals and shelves, all grouped around columns. This opened up the space and allowed people to walk around more freely. In addition to these breaks in tradition, we also added wayfinding maps which featured descriptions of each section in the gallery.
The Digital Design Exhibition has had consistent features for years. For instance, the back wall is painted a solid color and the logo placed in the center, there is a table to display 3D products, and the front wall is used for retail space. This year, we did things differently. Rather than painting the wall, we projected a video with our logo. 3D objects were placed on pedestals and shelves, all grouped around columns. This opened up the space and allowed people to walk around more freely. In addition to these breaks in tradition, we also added wayfinding maps which featured descriptions of each section in the gallery.
Video Credit: James Alexander
Branwen Hartley:
James Alexander: http://www.jtriangle.com/design/
