Plus: Design for Social Justice

Over the past two years, the Design for Social Equity research group has been working on the application of Design in a social context. A number of successful partnerships have formed with a variety of charities and organisations, resulting in ‘real world’ projects rich in research value.

Mike Pinkney, Senior Lecturer for Visual Communication and Interactive Media Design, thought it important for his Graphic Design students to engage with this research theme, and understand the value of working on non-commercial projects. This exhibition showcases project work undertaken by second year students in collaboration with 3 charities: The Cyrenians, Traidcraft and  Hadrians Wall Fairtrade Partnership. Students were set live briefs for campaigns and sub-brands, which allowed them to gain valuable experience of design in a social context.

The Cyrenians
This work incorporated 2 campaigns. The first was an advertising campaign to encourage the public to donate unwanted clothes to their new charity shop. The second was an awareness raising campaign ‘A Homeless Person is not just for Christmas’, which was used on posters, bus advertising and the Metro.

Traidcraft
The Traidcraft ‘Big Brew’ campaign was a nationwide campaign to promote Fairtrade tea, encouraging the public to hold tea parties in their local communities. Students also designed a brand for a children’s fair trade gift range.

Hadrian’s Wall Fairtrade Partnership
Students completely redesigned the Partnership’s logo and identity system.

	Exhibition Dates: 2nd – 22nd February 9am - 5pm Place: School of Design Foyer School of Design City Campus East Cost: Free
An example of the 'Fun Fair' range designed by students for Traidcraft's 'Pocket Money' campaign