Graphic design has found itself caught up in the political battle, aptly wielded to gain and maintain recognition for candidates and their campaigns. While candidates have long been using logos, with the unparalleled success of Obama’s “O”, the role graphic design plays in politics has been getting quite a bit more attention. We previously discussed political logos in our “Designer in Chief” article.
Professor Thomas Starr of the College of Arts, Media and Design at Northeastern University has taken an interest in the role of graphic design in politics. “…if design played such a major part in [Obama’s] election,” said Starr in an article shared from Northeastern’s news page, “I [want] to look at what part it is playing now.”
As part of this effort, Starr has put together an exhibit called “We the Designers” that is currently being housed in the lobby of a Northeastern residence hall. According to the news article, the pieces in the show are intended to address the “symbolism that surrounds Obama, and the policies enacted or pursued by his administration.” But what is most interesting about the exhibit, and has also created a bit of controversy, is Starr’s own installation in the show called “Exploded View.”
“Exploded View” is a play on the American flag, separating the red stripes from the blue box and white stars onto two different flags in an effort to represent the division between Democrats and Republicans, represented by blue and red on political maps. Some viewers find this to be offensive, calling it a “desecration” of the American flag, while others are regard them as artistic expression. Regardless of one’s views, there is one thing that cannot be argued against – it is thought-provoking.
In an article in The Huntington News, Starr states that “The goal [of “We the Designers”] was to address political opinion.” If this was the case, it appears he has been successful. His piece, although controversial, has done what any true piece of art or design is intended to do, communicate a message and evoke emotion. In fact, the strong emotions over the piece led to the flags being stolen, although they were later returned.
“We the Designers” is on display at Northeastern University until Dec. 15, when it will move to the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. to be displayed from Jan. 16 – Feb. 11.
