For my Graphic Design MFA thesis project at MICA, I  explored the role of Designer as Journalist and authored, edited, designed, and published a 64-page publication, called Track, about the state-designated Station North Arts & Entertainment District in Baltimore. The publication tracked the culture, stories, and change occurring in Station North in 2015. My goal was to create a portrait of the district at that moment in time—a pivotal juncture in the Station North story. 

 

Through the project, I wanted to measure the cultural vitality of the ad-hoc creative placemaking occurring in Station North. I wanted to know what kind of impact the Arts & Entertainment designation had on the neighborhoods in the district, and whether residents thought the designation was positive or negative. I wanted to use design to tell stories about people and their relationship to place. In essence, I wanted to create a visual story that showcased the Station North culture, people, and change occurring in the district at that moment in time. My intent was not to judge, but to document. I distributed the 100 copies of Track, which were printed by the Newspaper Club, to businesses and residents throughout Station North. I hope the publication contributes to a deeper understanding of where Station North is and sustains, for the next few years, the conversation about where Station North might be going.

 

The following photos were from my Graphic Design MFA Thesis Exhibition, which showcased Track. I titiled the exhibition Designer as Journalist. 

Read more about the project here.