RISD
Translating over 140 years of brand history into one unified identity
The brand
Founded in 1877, the Rhode Island School of Design is one of the world’s leading art and design institutions, known for its rigorous studio-based education and culture of cross-disciplinary exploration. Located in Providence, Rhode Island, RISD has shaped generations of influential artists, designers, and thinkers across a range of creative fields. Its alumni include David Byrne, Kara Walker, Nicole McLaughlin, and many more. With a deep commitment to experimentation and cultural impact, RISD continues to push the boundaries of art and design in the 21st century.
The guidelines
Introduced in 2022 as RISD’s first comprehensive identity system, these guidelines were developed in partnership with Gretel to address a core challenge: how to create a clear and rigorous visual identity for a school that thrives on experimentation. The result is a flexible yet disciplined system—covering logo usage, color, typography, imagery, and tone—that supports creativity without sacrificing cohesion. It reflects RISD’s commitment to critical thinking and visual excellence, ensuring that every expression of the brand feels intentional, inclusive, and unmistakably RISD.
Credits
