Brighton Rocks

Rosie Higham-Stainton

9th June 2008

‘Into the Woods’ was a befitting name for the University of Brighton’s graphics and illustration show at Free-Range. In a day the exhibition space was transformed into a forest of design treasures. Brighton students had contributed a varying array of work, covering all spheres of design and illustration from conceptual and abstract pieces to more semiotic and functional examples. Uniquely the Brighton students organised the event independent of their university, giving them responsibility and creative freedom to make a great show.

We spoke to graphic designer Amy Preston whose work focused on semiotics and symbols. Amy exhibited a selection of photos from everyday images that represented abstract ideas. She photographed a bicycle wheel with strips of paper caught in the spikes to represent invention. “I did my dissertation this year on symbols. I got quite obsessed with coming up with formulas for abstract ideas that are hard to depict.” London born Preston created a ‘geometric system’ of shapes- any two could be combined to create new meanings.

Amy’s work also exhibited various examples of information graphics. A red mug of tea hovering on a table edge was her concept for the Art Foundation Awards brochure. She explained how the mug represents artists on the brink of success. Her show also displaying a range of record sleeves and various poster designs.

Amy’s future plans are to “move back to London, probably move home for a bit. I want to get a lot of experience in little places. I don’t want to do corporate.” Preston is a good example of the versatility and quality of work displayed at ‘Into the Woods’.

Shaheena Pooloo, who also represented graphic design for Brighton, was displaying a range of boundary-pushing but functional design work. She collaborated with fellow student Laura Southcott on the Arts Foundation Awards brochure. The pair constructed the brochure in the form of stacking cards. “I like to challenge formats. We thought it would be more interactive. The stacking cards can be made into different formations. The black and silver colour choice made it a little more sophisticated.” Shaheena hopes to go onto work in information graphics “It may seem boring to some people but if you provide the information in an interesting way people will respond.” Definitely true of this exhibition on its opening night.

Shaheena-www.studio-oh.co.uk

Amy- www.amypreston.co.uk