Table of Contents
Designing for a more just and equitable world, one community at a time.
Citizen Design encourages designers to engage with the community, listen to their needs, and co-create solutions that are inclusive and sustainable.
The Importance of Social Justice in Design
Social justice in design is a critical aspect of creating equitable solutions that address systemic inequalities and empower marginalized communities. It involves recognizing and challenging the power dynamics that perpetuate inequality and creating designs that promote social justice and human rights. By incorporating social justice principles into design, we can create products, services, and spaces that are more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable.
Key Principles of Social Justice in Design
The Role of Citizen Design in Promoting Social Justice
Citizen Design is a free-entry category that recognizes outstanding work that addresses social, cultural, and environmental issues. By engaging with the community, listening to their needs, and co-creating solutions, Citizen Design encourages designers to take a more inclusive and participatory approach to design.
His work is a testament to the power of art to challenge societal norms and inspire change.
The Discovery of Letterpress Printing
Amos Paul Kennedy, Jr. was living a corporate life, working for AT&T, when he stumbled upon the art of letterpress printing. This serendipitous discovery would change the course of his life and lead him to create a unique and impactful art form. Kennedy’s journey into letterpress printing began with a visit to the Detroit Institute of Arts, where he was captivated by the works of artists like Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse. The vibrant colors and bold statements in their art resonated with Kennedy, inspiring him to explore the medium of letterpress printing. Key factors that led to Kennedy’s discovery of letterpress printing: + Visiting the Detroit Institute of Arts + Being inspired by the works of Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse + The serendipitous nature of his discovery
The Evolution of Kennedy Prints!
The Intersection of Design and Power
The relationship between design and power is complex and multifaceted. Design can be both a tool for social change and a means of reinforcing existing power structures. As Jennifer Rittner notes, “Design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about the ways in which we organize our lives and the ways in which we interact with each other.” This intersection of design and power raises important questions about the role of designers in society.
A Life of Creative Pursuits
Janell Nelson’s journey into the world of art and education began with her academic background in Communication and Education. Her M.Ed. from Teachers College, Columbia University, laid the foundation for her future endeavors. The thesis she wrote, which focused on pedagogies of equity and access in the art history curriculum, showcased her passion for creating inclusive learning environments. Her academic pursuits were not limited to the classroom; Nelson was also an active participant in the art world, working as a graphic designer and creative strategist.
The Creative Force Behind the Scenes
JNJ Creative is a design firm that has been quietly shaping the visual identity of various organizations and artists across the country. With a focus on equity and social justice, the firm has been instrumental in creating spaces that reflect the values of its clients. From the Harris Theater at Millennium Park to the Englewood Branded’s storage container POPCourt designs on 63rd St, Nelson has been the creative force behind the scenes, bringing unique and innovative designs to life. Key projects: + Harris Theater at Millennium Park + Englewood Branded’s storage container POPCourt designs on 63rd St + Other notable projects
The Art of Space Design
JNJ Creative’s approach to space design is centered around creating environments that promote social justice and equity. The firm’s designers use a combination of traditional and digital tools to craft spaces that are not only visually stunning but also thought-provoking. By incorporating elements of social justice and equity into their designs, JNJ Creative aims to create spaces that inspire and empower individuals and communities. Key principles: + Social justice and equity + Community engagement + Sustainable design
The Impact of JNJ Creative’s Work
JNJ Creative’s work has had a significant impact on the nonprofit and equity-focused organizations and artists nationwide. By creating spaces that reflect the values of its clients, the firm has helped to promote social justice and equity.
The Power of Community-Driven Design
In the world of public art, there exists a delicate balance between artistic expression and community engagement. When artists prioritize the needs and perspectives of the community, they create works that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also socially relevant. This is evident in the work of artist Nelson, who has made a significant impact through her community-driven projects.
Engaging with the Community
Nelson’s work on Tonika Johnson’s unBlocked Englewood project showcases her ability to engage with the community and understand their needs. By creating public art in both Michigan Avenue and Englewood, she has demonstrated that artists must consider the diverse perspectives and experiences of the communities they serve. Equity and Social Justice: Nelson’s work highlights the importance of addressing issues of equity and social justice in public art. By creating art that reflects the community’s experiences and perspectives, she has shown that artists can play a significant role in promoting social change. Community-Driven Design: Nelson’s approach to design emphasizes the importance of community involvement and participation. By working closely with the community, she has created public art that is not only beautiful but also meaningful and relevant. * Diverse Perspectives: Nelson’s work demonstrates the value of diverse perspectives and experiences in public art.