I was recommended for this project because the Chapman Director was looking for a GA with photography and design skills to redesign several interior walls, including a massive 65 ft x 10 ft curved wall space. The parameters were: "Use the space to highlight each of the five Learning Communities within Kohl Hall: Business District, La Masion Francaise, La Comunidad, Global Village and the Chapman Community. We want it to look classy, clean, modern and minimal. The display should serve as both an art piece and recruiting tool."
As project manager, I was put in charge of design, materials and a $3-4,000 budget (which I came well under). It didn't take me long to get sketching....
Final Images
Before I started, there was nothing on these walls but scuffed eggshell paint and a few outdated posters of famous artists and writers. With "classy, clean and modern" in mind, I chose to have images of students from the different Communities printed on aluminum (which is the "new" canvas). ;)
When I heard the words "modern and minimal" I knew I didn't want to use traditional mats and frames. Aluminum prints are the "new" canvas. ;) They gave the entire display the "clean, fresh, modern and minimal" look the directors were looking for. I used mostly black and white photos because they are always classy and timeless, while a few color photos highlight the fun. ;) Gray walls show off the photos well, like a classic gallery.
I also decided to incorporate mirrors in the design to both reflect light and the images of the potential students touring the space. In this way, students can already see themselves as part of that community. This encourages new students to take "selfies" and share them on social media. Finally, I incorporated a few "personal touches" to stay true to the essence of each individual Community. I loved working on this project. It was very rewarding to see the vision in my head slowly come to life over the course of that summer. It was an honor to be entrusted with the major redesign of small portion of my alma mater and very rewarding to know generations of falcons will enjoy this space for many, many years to come.
--A special thank you to the amazing staff at Perrysburg, Ohio's local print shop: Kohne Camera and Photo for printing our awesome aluminum photographs!