This is the first of several posts. I have been up and down the nation (well, to London) checking out degree shows as part of my role as programme leader for the new Graphic Design programme at Glasgow Caledonian University. As a graphic designer and lover of type, my primary focus was on the graphic design content of the degree shows, although I did peruse the other exhibitions in most shows.

My first degree show was Duncan of Jordanstone at University of Dundee. This was my first visit to Dundee and DofJ, so I didn’t know what to expect. The Graphic Design programme has an excellent reputation and I wasn’t disappointed. (the typographic image in the thumbnail is from the show but I cannot figure out who did it!) Each name is a link to the student’s website.

The typography was excellent both technically and contextually. There was a clear emphasis on not just setting type legibly and beautifully, but also meaningfully. This was explored primarily through posters and books – most produced to an incredibly high, professional-level standard.

Highlights:

Ian Ritch‘s self-initiated brief ‘We’re all mad here’ coupled fascinating photography with appropriate and beautiful design.

Alison Ainslie‘s submission for an ISTD brief was also beautifully considered. I particularly enjoyed the fold-out poster.

The Product Design show was also very interesting with interesting conceptual work realised beautifully. Zuzannna Bukula showed me around the show and explained the work well. Her project was a lovely integration of technology and folk-inspired craft.

Overall, I was incredibly impressed with the quality of the work throughout the show. Although it was at times incredibly difficult to figure out how to navigate around the buildings!