On the afternoon of October 23, 2024, the team from the globally renowned brand and communications agency Wordsearch visited the College of Fine Arts and Design of The Division of Arts for an inspiring exchange. The main guest, Mike Dorrian, the company’s Global Executive Creative Director, has over 20 years of extensive experience in brand development and communications, having provided creative support for numerous iconic projects.

During the session, Mike Dorrian shared his unique approach to creative storytelling, emphasizing the importance of diverse talent in brand communications. His methodology skillfully blends elements from illustration, graphic design, poetry, calligraphy, and science, aiming to connect a community’s past, present, and future through vibrant narrative. Mike highlighted how this cross-disciplinary integration not only revitalizes architecture and spaces but also fosters deep cultural resonance in brand development.

In an interactive segment with faculty and students, Mike showcased case studies illustrating how to achieve integrated design in commercial spaces with a brand-centric focus. He emphasized that a brand is not merely a visual identity but a vessel for emotions and culture, urging designers to fully grasp this essence.

The event aimed to advance in-depth collaboration between Wordsearch and the Visual Communication Design and Environmental Art Design programs. Xu Hui, Associate Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Design of The Division of Arts, along with Professors Wu Meng and Huang Yiran, and several graduate students, engaged in lively discussions on how brand strategies can enhance the uniqueness and appeal of commercial spaces. Mike’s insightful presentation provided valuable industry perspectives and inspired students to delve deeper into the realms of design and brand communications.

Divisionof Arts

November 5, 2024