Objectives

The course aims for participants to produce, by the end of the course, a printed bound publication as a final product. The fortnight begins with a number of day long exercises that encourage observation, and explore visual hierarchies and decision making processes. For the main editorial project small groups of three or four are formed and whilst the groups need to discuss common approaches, the project briefing is designed to allow individual interpretations and subsequently individual design contributions to each project. Each participant will take home a copy of the publication their group produced. The overall aim of the course is to expand technical and conceptual skills and thus move participants closer to finding a unique outlook and signature as a graphic designer. In a general sense, the course aims to establish an intensive, creative forum within which to discuss approaches to contemporary design practice, to share ideas and to celebrate collective interest and enthusiasm.

Structure

The course begins with an opening reception on the evening of the opening Sunday, acting as a welcoming gathering and opportunity for participants and tutors to meet each other. The course programme is structured to achieve a balance between lectures, group discussion, and individual project development time. Lectures take place in the morning allowing the remaining day to be devoted to project research and development, individually and with tutors. The two weeks culminate with presentations of the projects in a collective session. Other activities are integrated into the two weeks such as a social event on the evening of the first Friday, and an evening of informal talks by established Porto-based designers. There is no course activity scheduled for the weekend allowing participants free time. The course terminates with a dinner on the evening of the final Saturday.

Lectures

Lectures will be given by the four course tutors about their work and approaches to editorial design. Technical talks may also be given about typography and software-related page design.

Full schedule for 2027 (13th edition) to be announced.
Arrival – Sunday 11th July, 2027
Departure – Sunday 25th July, 2027