While at the Louvre Museum in Paris, France, a few years ago, I noticed that each exhibition proudly represented its own distinct sense of identity, thereby inviting me to reflect on different cultures, worldviews and styles of communication. In addition to that, I was surrounded by people from all over the world. To say the least, I was inspired and personally shaped by the intermingling of ideas that differed from my own.
But why? I think it’s because each identity — made up of qualities that distinguish or identify a person, group, collective or culture — offers fresh perspectives that shape and enrich how we think, problem solve and interact with others as a contrast. That is why showing up as your whole self — bringing your ideas, perspectives, beliefs, forms of expression and so on — benefits not only you, but also those around you.
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This idea of a ‘whole self’ enriches not just oneself and those surrounding them, but also informs the very way a city is perceived. Intermingling of identities, advancements in tech, greater travel and communication design have significantly influenced how cities communicate. Today, when you visit a city, local identity can be perceived through maps, signage, photography and even money. Even so, these identities become increasingly interconnected with new visual manifestations that aim to communicate a message through elements like colour, typography and texture. Since communication is fundamental to our day-to-day lives, it is important to stay curious and open-minded towards embracing different communication design practices to create inclusive and pleasant experiences that give a voice to distinct communities within cities.
For example, when it comes to travel, maps are fundamental. The maps that I used in Chicago and Venice both visualised complex transportation systems through simple lines and colour to clearly communicate how to get from point A to point B, even more so without adding information that does not bring immediate value to the viewer. Although these maps use similar methods, they are all inherently unique since they represent different cities and highlight certain pieces of information that elevate a city’s voice.
With advances in travel and digital communication, it is evident that the intermingling of identities plays a significant role in shaping how cities communicate
In Venice’s water bus transportation system — called the Vaporetto — we can see traces of local identity through language, typography, colour and the type of information shown. Embracing the region’s rich cultural background can manifest itself by visualising monuments, certain water passageways and the many other aspects that make Venice unique. The map’s logo, although subtle on the map, plays its role in reflecting characteristics that make Venice the famous ‘floating city’. This is where local identity can intersect with communication design to create an inclusive, inviting and delightful experience.
Similarly, signage in Chicago and Shanghai used visual elements like typography and texture to represent local identity. Both signs were vertically anchored onto the side of the building, but had language as the key differentiator. The complex structure of Chinese characters contrasts the English letters, which alters the overall tone of the design. This makes me think about the breadth of elements that can be used to visually communicate messages. Is communication design confined to traditional elements like colour, or might there be opportunities to create a more immersive experience? Nonetheless, it is important to consider that familiar communication design patterns are helpful in cities because they align with mental models that make communication effective for a wide array of people.
With advances in travel and digital communication, it is evident that the intermingling of identities plays a significant role in shaping how cities communicate. I imagine that our definition and expectations of local identity will continue to evolve as well. But what does not change is that each person’s sense of identity is immensely valuable and has much to offer. My question to you, therefore, is: do you bring your whole self into your day-to-day life? And beyond an individual reflection, how might we become more aware of how our city communicates? Embracing and sharing your sense of identity may be your next step in becoming an active citizen in your city, along with staying curious and appreciating the different perspectives that others may bring as well.
All photos: Abril Caraballo-Marin
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