I found this exhibition really interesting because of the way it explored the functional use of Graphic Design to provide important messages to people. The focus of the exhibition is to show how design has influenced people to lead healthier life styles.
Design can be used to signify important organisations for example Hanging in the gallery is a Red Cross, Red Crescent and a Red Crystal these are internationally recognisable symbols as a sign for help in war. The design which in all 3 cases is incredibly simple are strong, bold and stand out. especially when looking into the use of theses symbols.
Theses symbols will stand out extremely well in a war because the forces that are fighting in that region will not be wearing anything similar to theses symbols. The value that theses symbols have gained through their use, allows innocent citizens of these war torn regions to reach out for help in their time of crisis. So I think this is an example of how simple, good effective design has been used to save many thousands of people around the world. Interestingly enough the design for the Red cross is the exact opposite of the Swiss flag, which globally seen as an observer force or neutral in conflicts around the world.
I have only one issue with the first two symbols used for The Red Cross, and this is the religious connotations that theses designs also carry. The Red Cross is inherently western / christian by design as it reflects the cross that was used to crucify Jesus. The Crescent Moon can be seen to reflect islam. the issue I have with this is the fact that it can signify help only to a particular part of society in a conflict region. This in of itself could cause conflict or tensions when in recent years conflict has been around the expectants of one or other of theses religions, especially with the conflicts in the middle east against Islamic State and other Extremist Islamic Groups. In 2005 a third symbol was introduced, The hollow Square. I find this symbol the best of the three as it has the most apolitical, areligious meaning, and by this token can be seen as being the most neutral. This is specifically important in regions where tension could arise due a religious tendencies.
To conclude this is one of many examples in the exhibition on how good design has been used to save life. I think it is important to remember that design needs to have context and this context changes depending on what region the design is being used. I think The Red Cross has made sure that through design they have tried to remain as neutral as possible and show that they are for everyone in crisis, and not a certain religion or nationality of person.
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