NTU Live brief - Winter 2022/23
Heddiw // Today
Connecting TSPTR with a new audience by celebrating Welsh culture, language and literature.
Project Aim / objective / brief
The aim of this project was to create a zine series that would connect TSPTR with a new audience, aligning with their latest ‘Home-grown’ collection and the concept of what home-grown means to me. My objective was to celebrate the Welsh language and culture through a bilingual zine, offering a glimpse into the rich world of Welsh literature, from music to poetry, and introduce it to a broader audience. By doing so, the project sought to contribute to the preservation and promotion of the Welsh language and heritage.
Project approach
The project approach involved meticulous research into Welsh literature, music, and poetry to curate content that would resonate with both Welsh speakers and non-Welsh speakers alike. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences and cultural significance, two issues of the zine were crafted, each exploring different aspects of what home-grown means to me. Issue 1 showcased key songs and poems that evoke a sense of Welsh pride, while Issue 2 delved into the intimate connection between the Welsh language and personal grief.
Project result
The project resulted in 2 issues of the zine, hand-bound, with a supporting asset for each issue. The zines are bilingual, with the English versions printed on tracing paper up-side down, so both languages can exist within harmoniously. I also received acclaim, winning ‘most experimental design’ in my seminar group, judged by TSPTR founder and lecturers
Project skills
Graphic design, Story telling, translation.
Project Research
Research for this project encompassed delving into the rich tapestry of Welsh literature, music, and poetry, exploring its historical significance and contemporary relevance. Additionally, the project involved sourcing imagery from Welsh archives documenting protests for the preservation of the Welsh language, highlighting its cultural and political importance. This research formed the foundation for the content and creative direction of the zine series.
Project idea and creative concept development
The project strategy centered around the creation of a bilingual zine series that would serve as a cultural bridge, introducing the Welsh language, culture and literature to a wider audience. The creative concept drew inspiration from traditional zine culture designs, infused with elements of Welsh heritage and symbolism. By adopting a simple yet impactful design approach, the zine aimed to authentically represent Welsh culture while maintaining a contemporary design.
Project outcome and results
The project resulted in the successful creation of two issues of the zine series, each crafted to celebrate Welsh language and culture through different themes with consideration for the longevity of the zine. Issue 1 showcased a selection of key songs and poems that make me proud to be Welsh, and offer a glimpse into the richness of Welsh literature. Issue 2 delved into more intimate themes, exploring the personal connection between the Welsh language and how the literature helped me through grief. The zine series received acclaim, winning the most experimental design in the seminar group. The project succeeded in connecting TSPTR with a new audience, contributing to the wider appreciation and understanding of Welsh heritage and identity. Throughout the project, valuable skills in design, curation, and cultural interpretation were developed. Reflecting on the process, the project underscored the importance of cultural preservation and the power of storytelling in fostering connections across languages and border
