Critical Daily    Critical practice in graphic design

Can graphic design make people better behave with each other? One
interdisciplinary design studio, which is based in Boston and Detroit in USA, tried to solve this question. Name of this studio cannot be more optimistic - the name is Goodgood. This positive way of thinking can be also seen in the way they work. It was founded by Karen Stein and Ben Gaydos in 2008. Both of them are based in different city - Karen in Boston, and Ben in Detroit. Karen Stein is a designer, artist and educator in one person. Her experience as an art director in more than 18 years, and the way she designs with empathy is interesting. She has been teaching at various Universities in United States. Ben Gaydos is also a designer, filmmaker, artist and educator. His works were exhibited internationally.

As long as it is interdisciplinary design studio, they are working with all forms of media and various types of projects. With emphatic feeling to those, who are using their designs and considering economical, social and ecological factors, they are trying to revitalize the role of design. This approach is very promising, moreover when it is fulfilled.

With their natural hope in human race, Goodgood studio in collaboration with Jessica Gath, Matthew Shanley and XO Wood made an exhibition trying to make other hearts more warm. The exhibition Campaign for good is kindful action which is hoping to move the feelings in people. With this they basically wanted to put a smile on everyones face. The idea is really strong, especially in this fast century we are living in.

I find it nice to use design as a form of game, collaboration and exhibition at one time. Just to spread some positive vibes, because there is never enough of them. Most visible is the work with typography. I also like the interactive installation like writing on the wall by the visitors, taking or letting something. Maybe there is more than a lot of various motivational quotes, yet it is still powerful in it’s basis. The whole exhibition is made in warm and encouraging colours, with kind messages for everyone. I think there should be more exhibition like this. After all, the idea is great, and it is upon us to spread it more.