02. Reading Groups

Introduction

For this session, you'll split into 4 groups and decide on 4 topics you'd like to present a set of reading or viewings on.

Suggested Topics

I don't necessarily want or need to talk about these topics specifically but here are some thoughts to start things up. If you want to talk about something on this list it is more than likely fine, but let's keep it directed at some aspect of the field, or careers within the field. Let's try to use this space for talks that are not explicitly pragmatic. Things like "how to format a resume" we will cover in class.

You have no obligation to be limited to these specific topics.

Artificial Intelligence (LLM's)

  • The use of LLM-based image-generation in Adobe, Canva, etc. and what that might mean for the future of creativity.
  • The use of and effect of LLM's like ChatGPT in writing and other school work.

The Future of Graphic Design as a Career

  • What will the role of being a graphic designer actually look like?
  • Is the career of being a graphic designer "in danger" or just in flux?

(The value of) Graduate School vs. Entering the work force

  • Perspectives from different graduate schools (Yale, Cranbrook, SVA, etc.)
  • Perspectives of folks who have done both (have an MFA, working as a designer)

Representation in Design (BIPOC, Asian, Queer, etc.)

  • What are some interesting projects that reflect the idiosyncratic perspective of a marginalized group and why is it interesting (to you or your group)?
  • What are some voices in design that have not been traditionally present, and why?
  • What are some reasons why some groups disproportionately (mis)represented in "canonical" graphic design history?

Places to Look (Written)

(You're totally fine to look at more conventional news sources, editorials are welcome, but below are graphic design specific resources)

  • It's Nice That↗ Perspectives on the field, and individual designers, they also have a talk series (see below) with interesting perspectives.
  • Brand Identity↗ Perspectives largely on brand design, as the name implies but might help reinforce certain perspectives.
  • Type Today ↗ More type centric, but still interesting material here.
  • AIGA Eye on Design↗ Dated/discontinued but still some worthwhile stuff here.
  • Real Life Mag↗ Another discontinued but interesting blog with some potentially still relevant writing.
  • Looking Closer↗ This is a link to volume 4, from 2002. These are quite old, but may be helpful for referencing "important" or "historical" ideas, or at least seeing where the discourse was in past iterations.

Places to Look (Video)

  • It's Nice That↗ Linking this for the Nicer Tuesdays series where they have many interesting talks.
  • The Futur↗ Extremely pragmatic, but usually worthwhile advice on the business of design
  • Linus Boman↗ Usually thoughtful and interesting videos on design ideas.
  • "kelliot" podcast↗ Younger folks working in the field talking about different aspects of the design universe.

What to do

  • Exchange information and/or start a group chat or similar. Whatever you need to get started.
  • Discuss with your assigned group what topic feels the most ptertinent to you all, and why it is important to you (individually and as a group)
  • After about 5-7 minutes of discussion we'll decide what each group will do, presuming some groups may have the same general topic. We'll discuss if we either need to re-select another idea or be more granular in our choices.
  • You'll take some time (10-15 minutes) to look for several articles/essays/videos on the topic we all agree upon and then we'll either vet some of them or discuss why they do or don't seem applicable.
  • Nominate a representative to email me the readings/viewings
  • On the date listed below your group will lead the discusson on your chosen readings/viewings.

Homework

Subsequent to the above steps a representative from each group will send me the readings/viewings they'd like us to discuss, with a series of questions to start our thinking on the topics.

  • Focus on one central viewing or reading and several (2 - 3 max) pieces of supplementary material
  • Come up with at least 5 (five) open-ended questions for the group to consider
  • Write a paragraph of introductory text to contextualize the reading/viewing and what you'd like to focus on

Relevant dates

  • 02/06/2026 → (FRIDAY before CLASS)

    • Reading Group #1 → Group representative sends me the material listed above.

  • 02/09/2026 → (CLASS)

    • Reading Group #1 → Group introduces topic and material to the class.

  • 02/20/2026 → (FRIDAY before CLASS)

    • Reading Group #2 → Group representative sends me the material listed above.

  • 02/23/2026 → (CLASS)

    • Reading Group #1 → Group discussion lead by group members
    • Reading Group #2 → Group introduces topic and material to the class.

  • 02/27/2026 → (FRIDAY before CLASS)

    • Reading Group #3 → Group representative sends me the material listed above.

  • 03/02/2026 → (CLASS)

    • Reading Group #2 → Group discussion lead by group members
    • Reading Group #3 → Group introduces topic and material to the class.

  • 02/27/2026 → (FRIDAY before CLASS)

    • Reading Group #4 → Group representative sends me the material listed above.

  • 03/09/2026 → (CLASS)

    • Reading Group #3 → Group discussion lead by group members

    • Reading Group #4 → Group introduces topic and material to the class.

  • 03/30/2026 → (CLASS)

    • Reading Group #4 → Group discussion lead by group members