A short essay I completed during my final year of study in Wales. Fueled by my interest in the work of contemporary designers and writers, such as Chris Clarke, A2, Nikolas Bourriaud and others, this small publication is an investigation into the social benefits of design that works with local community — known as Relational or Socially-Engaged Design.

“Increasingly, as graphic design becomes less servile and more assertive, designers are finding themselves with more freedom to begin authoring their own work. From conception to outcome, they have the chance to choose the content of what they communicate and thus, new opportunities for creative development. Some of them, in reaction to cultural changes, are choosing to engage with their local communities - starting new discussions with design at the forefront, facilitating dialogue. What opportunities does this relational design offer for those who are exploring it? And where is the line between an artist and a designer?”