THE PIGNA DESIGN EXPERIENCE
Pigna × Pratt Institute
Developed and led by John Battista De Santis
I developed the Pigna Design Experience at Pratt Institute as a collaboration connecting communication design students with Pigna through a competition to reimagine the notebook cover. Students developed original concepts from initial sketches through final presentation, with the winning design moving into production in Italy as the Pigna × Pratt Special Edition Notebook.
THE DESIGN COMPETITION
Students researched Pigna, developed original concepts, worked through sketches and revisions, and presented final notebook cover designs for review. The project was built around an actual product and the possibility that a student design could move from the classroom into production.
FROM COMPETITION TO PRODUCTION
Jake Stewart’s first-place design was selected by Pigna and produced in Italy as the Pigna × Pratt Special Edition Notebook. The notebook was sold commercially, and Jake received royalties from sales. The second- and third-place winners received Pigna products as awards.
LAUNCH
The finished notebook was introduced through two launch events, one with Blick Art Materials and another at Artist & Craftsman Supply in Brooklyn. Students were able to see the project continue beyond the competition through production, retail and public launch.
VIEW STUDENT PROJECT WORK PDF →
Video: Juan Carlos Arteaga
PROJECT INFORMATION
Project Development + Creative Direction: John Battista De Santis
Industry Partner: Pigna
Academic Partner: Pratt Institute
Winning Designer: Jake Stewart
Video: Juan Carlos Arteaga