Case Study: Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) builds a unifying identity framework with Gretel

RISD builds a new identity framework in 1 year with Gretel

The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) partnered with the vendor Gretel to undertake a comprehensive identity transformation. The challenge was to build a new, cohesive identity framework that would unify the institution, reflect its structural commitments to evolution and inclusivity, and resonate with its diverse community of artists and designers.

Gretel's solution involved a deeply collaborative and research-driven process, co-creating with the RISD community to develop the strategic purpose "Question to Create, Create to Question." This was brought to life through a flexible visual system, most notably a custom typeface family designed to range from complete to incomplete. The result was a forward-thinking yet historically rooted identity that amplified the voices of the community, providing actionable tools for expression and ensuring consistency across the institution.

Rhode Island School of Design (risd)