Introducing Culture Identities: Design for Museums, Theaters and Cultural Institutions by Robert Klanten

Introducing Culture Identities: Design for Museums, Theaters and Cultural Institutions by Robert Klanten is a valuable volume for those who are interested in any aspect of the cultural scene. The comprehensive book, released by Gestalten in October 2017, is focused on the visual identity of cultural institutions, from theaters and displays to festivals and events. It combines theory and practice to give readers an invaluable set of guidelines and inspiration for any form of visual representation and communication.

Designers, curators, and promoters of culture alike can benefit significantly from this book, as it shares insights on a wide range of topics and even provides case studies. In the first part of the book, Robert Klanten offers an expansive overview of brands, logos, and identity systems, from their history and evolution to their current use in the cultural space. Further sections are dedicated to institutional design, which covers the creation of brand strategies and integrated communication systems, and exhibitions, where the author casts his net across a variety of settings.

The second part of the book explores the visual identity of specific exhibition projects with a focus on the tools of communication design and the different media employed to convey messages, from display design and typography to web and mobile app design. Throughout the book, readers will be able to access valuable nuggets of knowledge as Klanten shares examples from practice. He focuses above all on how documents and contemporary technology are used to create an emotional link between the audience and the institution.

Klanten brings a unique perspective to the subject, linking theory with the real world in ways that make the material particularly engaging. Whether looking at individual projects or gaining an overview of the field, readers will acquire a concise understanding of the entire process of developing a visual identity. Introducing Culture Identities also provides ideas on how cultural institutions can create digital experiences and offers advice on how to make websites and apps intuitive, aesthetically pleasing, and enjoyable.

In sum, Introducing Culture Identities is an incredibly useful resource for both professionals and those who are interested in cultural institutions. The case studies, the insights, and the practical information contained within the book can provide unparalleled insights into the complex field of cultural identity design. From small-scale displays to major events, Klanten’s book can help shape the visual identity of any culture-related project.