Design is not just an art form but a powerful tool for social change. The PRINT Awards have introduced a Citizen Design category that zeros in on projects committed to addressing social, cultural, and environmental issues. This special category aims to foreground design works that not only raise awareness but also spur action toward a more equitable and just world.
Citizen Design is a beacon for projects ranging from social media graphics to interactive experiences, all crafted to foster empathy and provoke action. Whether it’s through a public campaign or a mobile app, each submission is evaluated for its impact on society, showcasing how creativity can bridge the gap between diverse communities and stimulate systemic change.
The emphasis on social justice within design practices is of paramount importance. Designers are increasingly tasked with creating solutions that do not just appeal aesthetically but are also equitable and accessible to all. This involves challenging existing inequalities and advocating for a world where design is a cornerstone of social fairness.
The 2025 jury of the Citizen Design category comprises individuals who use their exceptional skills in design to advocate for change and uplift communities. Their careers provide a diverse perspective on how design can serve as a potent medium for advocacy and transformation.
Among the notable jurors is Amos Paul Kennedy, Jr., a letterpress artist who found his calling in the world of print after leaving a corporate position at AT&T at age 40. Kennedy, who draws inspiration from social justice figures like Rosa Parks and Frederick Douglass, creates vibrant posters that discuss race, politics, and history, challenging societal norms and fostering dialogue.
His work has not only captured the attention of major publications like the New York Times and The Economist but has also been featured in prominent institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Library of Congress.
Joining him on the panel is Jennifer Rittner, a respected educator at the Parsons School of Design, whose expertise lies in scrutinizing the nexus of design and power dynamics. Rittner has contributed significantly to the dialogue on design’s role in societal structures, editing pivotal works that explore the intersections of race, gender, and socio-economic status in design.
Also making up the jury is Janell Nelson, a fervent advocate of “design for good.” Nelson’s firm, JNJ Creative, has been instrumental in reshaping the visual identities of numerous nonprofits and community initiatives across Chicago. Her work with the Englewood Arts Collective and national projects like the unBlocked Englewood illustrate her commitment to using design as a tool for social and restorative justice.
This category not only highlights the transformative potential of design but also offers participants a chance to achieve international recognition. Projects that demonstrate a profound impact on societal norms and contribute to a broader discussion about the role of design in fostering a more inclusive world are especially celebrated.
Engaging in the Citizen Design category provides a unique platform for designers passionate about making a difference through their creative endeavors. It champions the concept that design should be a reflection of conscience and an agent for change in the global community.
As the world becomes more interconnected, the role of design in shaping societal attitudes and public policies gains prominence. It is crucial that the design community continues to push the boundaries of creativity to address the pressing challenges of our times.
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