statement of purpose

Design begins with the premise that the world is a mutable, transitioning, and shared place. Supported by a diverse array of media-fluid skills and methods, graphic design students at KCAI develop a holistic idea-driven creative practice through critical and exploratory thinking, making, and reflecting. Students learn how to make and shape meaning, and communicate ideas visually, through the innovative use of text, image, and space. Working in multiple orientations in collaborative and self-directed settings, students are encouraged to question and explore how design can be an instrument for collective expression, resistance, and social dialogue, and thus creatively impact the world.

The curriculum features a core track of six inquiry-based studio courses that cut across media [2d / 3d / 4d] and positions graphic design as equally important within civic, social and commercial contexts. These major studios are supported by a series of studies in essential design principles and practices in typography, image-making, and professional practices. Embedded in each six-credit studio is a constant thread of reading- and discussion-based mini-seminars that help students connect ideas and increase the relevance of their work in interaction, interdisciplinary studies, information and data visualization, social innovation, and branding + identity. Their inquiry-based track will culminate in a self-directed senior project and exhibition during their final semester. This flexible structure provides students with a foundation of generalist abilities and at the same time allows for the development of a specialist set of knowledge and skills. Students leave with the capacity to be future-focused, fluid and nimble designers in society within a constantly shifting world.

Overall, this customizable mix of exploratory thinking and making within an embodied learning community will provide them the agency to push on the boundaries of the practice and continue to evolve the field during their studies and onwards in various professional roles and contexts.