Graphic Design, Power, and Aesthetics — workshop and collective publication

Please note: this event will be held in person at Glasgow Zine Library. It is open to people who identify as graphic designers or have engaged with graphic design industry.

In this workshop, we invite graphic designers to take a brief look at graphic design’s role, its power, and how it is influenced by power and social norms. We will challenge what designers take for granted, and explore how aesthetics are not neutral, and what makes designs authentic.

The workshop will mix presentation with casual discussion and several short activities.

After the workshop, you are invited to submit a separate piece of creative output, which will be included in a collective zine and exhibited at SaltSpace Gallery in August.

This workshop is a part of a Master's thesis project led by Beth Xia from Edinburgh University. We’re looking for graphic designers to participate, and you are welcome to join one or more workshops (There is some overlap between workshops).

Any questions, please contact Beth at [email protected] for more information.

Beth Xia is a designer, artist, and zine-maker. She worked as a full-time graphic designer for 7 years in Aotearoa New Zealand, after graduating from Falmouth University with a Graphic Design degree. She is currently studying the MSc Narrative Futures: Art, Data and Society at Edinburgh University, and wants to explore how we can practice graphic design to support the creation of a more just world.

Find out more about Beth's work.

There will be 8 attendees maximum, and the event will feature comfort breaks. During this event, participants will be involved in: Talk / Lecture, Group Discussions, Hands on activities, Writing, Visual presentation

This event will take place at the GZL space on Albert Road in Govanhill.

You may be asked to wear a mask at this event.

If you have any questions or access requirements, please get in touch with us via [email protected]

All events will adhere to our safer spaces policy, which you can learn about here.

GZL pledges to support The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel. As part of this pledge we may participate in strikes called in response to the ongoing genocide in Palestine. If this event falls on a strike day and is cancelled, we will work with event leaders to reschedule the event asap. Participants will also have the option of receiving an immediate refund for any ticket purchases and travel booked to attend.

After booking a ticket, you will be sent several reminder emails from Eventbrite leading up to the event. We will also send emails that share any resources that attendees will need access to, including any required materials.

Please email [email protected] for any queries or issues.

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