IMMA — Self Determination Reader & Exhibition (2023)

The Self Determination project at the Irish Museum of Modern Art focuses on the role of art and artists on the nation building that occurred across Europe post World War II. For us, what began as an identity project for an international conference in 2022 grew into a 260 page publication and assets for a major exhibition in 2023. 

The concept for the identity we created was typographically led and revolved around the ‘100’ being stretched and manipulated to signify the passing of time, forming a compelling and unique graphic device which adapted to the new phases of the project with ease.

The conference was a vehicle to facilitate ongoing dialogue, open further conversations, gather material and develop content for the book which coincided with the exhibition, Self-Determination: A Global Perspective. The exhibition and book represented the culmination of a three-year research project, undertaken by a cross-disciplinary team of curators in IMMA as well as a talented group of national and international researchers.

Art and Self-Determination: A Reader was designed to accommodate the academic essays and poetry collected and developed over the three years. It also showcased some of the artworks from the exhibition and the new works that were specifically commissioned. Designed with the aim to create a sense of rhythm and flow, and to encourage the reader to digest the content at their own pace, the publication included many large images spanning double-page spreads, typeset poetry and branded chapter dividers, reinforcing the identity while navigating various thematic subjects.

For the exhibition we created a timeline and motion piece which were developed to provide context. Situated at the start of the exhibition, the chronological timeline helped visitors orientate themselves within the time period, juxtaposing key events in Ireland from 1913–39 with events that were unfolding internationally. The accompanying moving map revealed the changing face of Europe over the twenty-six year period. To promote the exhibition we created a number of print and digital communications and designed outdoor signage for the Museum.