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Destination: Common Ground
Jonas Vogt
What if we approached designing for climate communication the same way as we would design a brand or product? Today's advocacy campaigns are struggling to persuade more people to take action, not because they are wrong, but because they forget to take the interests and experiences of their audience into consideration. COMMON GROUND is a digital toolkit for more effective climate change communication. Building on the key ideas of the design thinking process, this project offers climate initiatives a new, iterative, audience-centered approach to communicating ecological awareness. By helping organisations better understand and emphatize with their audience, they will be able to inspire real action and change for the better. Following the launch, Jonas Vogt will be working with climate research and communication organisations from around the world to test and improve the toolkit over the coming weeks and months. (Illustrations by Simone Yumeng Lin)
Jonas Vogt
Jonas is a visual designer from Shanghai, China. He has been engaged with brand and UI design as of late, and is eagerly expanding his scope of work to involve UX, interaction and motion design. Jonas recognises that the world we live in today has its fair share of problems, and is in need of dramatic systemic change. Whether it is through commercial work or his personal projects, Jonas takes pride in using his skills and creativity as a means of questioning the status quo and inspiring action.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years?
Not the slightest idea. Having experienced the year that was 2020, I don't want to plan too far ahead. I know what I want to do tomorrow, this week, maybe this year. But I figured I'd probably be in a good place in 20 years as long as I try to be the most observant, creative, curious, and respectful version of myself every day.
What is a good design for you?
Good design is functional, inclusive, respectful, and accessible. Good design says something. Good design either grabs my eyes and makes a long-lasting impression, or doesn't even make me notice its existence. Good design makes me kick myself for not being the one who made it.
Who or what inspires you?
Ai Weiwei's honesty, Erik Spiekermann's directness, the smell of autumn on a late summer day, the Volvo 1800 ES, Jacob Collier's music. Oh, and every designed thing I've ever collected, made or laid eyes on.
How do you approach a new project?
Research always comes first. I listen, ask questions, and try to become an expert in what I am making, and who I am designing for.
What advice would you give to students who just started studying in your programme?
Do the work, all of it, and more. Put in 120% of your effort. Watch stuff, read stuff, make stuff. Stay humble, recognize what you don't know.
Have you changed during your studies? How?
I like to think I've gotten better at what I do. But beyond that, I learned to ask questions, be critical of what we consider normal, and pay attention to what's going on around me. Not just in my field, but in the world.
How are you going to celebrate your graduation?
Have a few beers, and not think about my project for a while.
3 comments in total
love it! 🔥🔥🔥
Beautiful work! Congratulations Jonas :)
Great work, Jonas! You worked your ass off, for something that is needed! Love the way you bring Design and People a step closer and everyting to change for the better. Congratulation!