Guild of Responsible Designers
For the practical element of the dissertation, I have created and build up a network of 8 graphic designers who share the same common goal: to use design skills to help the disadvantaged. Addressing both the environment and human needs. I have also created a handbook and guidelines for the Guild of Responsible Designer members. Which aims to inform with the methodologies and rationale of the Guild of Responsible Designers. The synthesis between both my written element and practical piece is that what I have learned from my research is that design skills can be used to make a difference to the disadvantaged. The Guild is the start of social change in Leeds College of Art.
Bobby Jones Graphic Design COP 3 OUGD 601
01
Rationale
The Guild of Responsible Designers was born out of the lack of responsible and sustainable activity from students at Leeds College of Art. I knew of other students who had a similar interests and agendas as me and thought we should become a collective and use our combined skills and knowledge. The Guild of Responsible Designers learn by working together, sharing our experiences and understanding. The outcomes of the discussions were more about participating and belonging than about specific items of content. Over the last few months we have explored, observed and engaged with how designers make a difference in the local community in Leeds,
Bobby Jones Graphic Design COP 3 OUGD 601
03
Achieved
I have build affiliation with Leeds University and the Green Exchange, our projects receive funding as well as relations with their committee and students. Further expanding our ability to make a change on a much larger scale. I have also started a Sustainable Society which aims to educate, promote sustainable and socially responsible design for anyone who may have an interest in the subject or would like to know more. This will be achieved by workshops, action days, guest speakers and collaboration projects. As the student representative working with the College’s Sustainable Committee, I hope that our messages and practice will have more support and gives more knowledge of what it is the Colleges doing to be more responsible.
Bobby Jones Graphic Design COP 3 OUGD 601
04
Handbook
The handbook’s tone is one which is explanatory of what a new member can expect from the Guild. As this project is not one which is going to stop after the 15th, but continue to be a part of my own practice and the other members. This is not to say that the project is unfinished but that the project must continue as we have a responsibilty to. The design is one which aims to be different and stand out from conventional publications. This is achieved from a custom size, use of stock and layout. This was done to demonstrate that the Guild’s aims and attitudes challenge the current environment. The stock use is 100% recyclable as well as the binding, which is from 100% natural and eco friendly. These design decisions were made directly from my research for the project.
Bobby Jones
Graphic Design
COP 3
OUGD 601
02