My work has always moved between design, education and professional practice. I develop projects that bring academic institutions, cultural organizations, businesses and communities together around real work.
These collaborations have taken many forms—exhibitions, installations, publications, moving image, design research, public programs and community-based projects.
The approach is simple: bring the right people together, develop a strong idea, and create work that reaches beyond its original setting.
Partnerships & Collaborations
Some of my most interesting work has grown out of partnerships.
The Pratt × Blick Design Partnership, 14th Street Creative Corridor, projects with Pratt Manhattan Gallery, and work with Pratt Institute Libraries all began with different needs and developed in different directions.
A collaboration might become an exhibition, publication, campaign, installation, workshop, research project or something that doesn’t fit neatly into one category. The project determines the format.
Curriculum & Program Development
I have developed courses, projects and programs in graphic design, typography, design history, professional practice, portfolio development and digital media.
My work includes new curriculum, interdisciplinary projects, short-term programs, and projects that connect academic study with professional practice, cultural institutions and public audiences.
Workshops, Lectures & Critiques
Lectures, workshops and critiques grow directly from my teaching, professional practice and research.
Areas of focus include typography and design history, professional practice, portfolio development, exhibition and environmental design, experiential learning, and collaborations between academic, cultural and professional organizations.
Selected Projects
Pratt × Blick
An ongoing collaboration connecting Pratt students with Blick Art Materials through exhibitions and public-facing design projects.
14th Street Creative Corridor
A multidisciplinary initiative using Manhattan’s 14th Street as a setting for design, exhibitions, moving image and public engagement.
Pigna Experience
Professional design and creative work connecting product development, brand experience and public-facing communication.
Type Talks
An ongoing research and educational project exploring typography through designers, histories, cultures and communities.
Pratt Exhibitions
Exhibition projects connecting design education, institutional collaboration and public audiences.
Rome Through Design
A communication design program using Rome as classroom, research site and source for creative work.
Contact
For partnerships, projects, programs and other inquiries, contact John De Santis →