Martin Flores’ thesis project explores the concept of liminality through graphic design. Discover how he crafted a physical space to evoke this transitional state, using posters, flyers, and an immersive environment. Keywords: graphic design, liminality, exhibit design
How do you design for a feeling? Recent design graduate Martin Flores tackled this question for his thesis project, focusing on the concept of “liminality.”
Liminality is that in-between state where the old is gone, but the new hasn’t fully arrived. Think of rites of passage, or moments of uncertainty and transition. Flores aimed to capture this feeling through a unique design experience.
The project centered around a physical exhibit. Visitors first encountered a gallery wall with information about liminality. A small booth offered a preview of the main installation, like a movie trailer. Following a map, participants then discovered a hidden stairwell transformed into an immersive space.
The stairwell became a physical manifestation of liminal space. Walls were plastered with flyers and posters exploring different aspects of liminality – some humorous, some philosophical. The messages aimed to be relatable, capturing the varied thoughts that often accompany transitional periods.
This design cleverly used the environment to evoke a specific feeling. The hidden stairwell, separate from the main gallery, created a sense of disorientation. The posters, with their diverse messages, mirrored the conflicting thoughts that often arise in liminal experiences.
Flores’ project demonstrates the power of graphic design to go beyond aesthetics. He successfully translated an abstract concept into a tangible, interactive experience. It’s a testament to how design can shape our understanding of the world, even the intangible parts.
For designers, this work offers a fresh perspective. It encourages us to think about how we can design for emotions and experiences, not just visual appeal. And for anyone who’s ever felt “in between,” it’s a reminder that these transitional periods, while unsettling, are also opportunities for growth and transformation.
For more information make sure to check out martinfloresdesign.com/thesis
