When CSU graphic design professor John Gravdahl was commissioned by the Office of the Vice President for Research to design an art installment in the revitalized Lory Student Center, he knew he had to make it personal.
Now Gravdahl is being honored for his unique design that ties artistry to research.
“Scientific Method,” installed outside the LSC ballroom, has been selected for a Gold Award by the internationally juried Graphis Magazine Design Annual in its 2016 publication.
The annual issue presents and promotes the work of exceptional talent in graphic design, advertising, photography and art/illustration. Platinum and gold winners are featured on a full page.
“Scientific Method” is integrated into the Research Wall, an LSC wall sponsored by the Office of the Vice President for Research, dedicated to highlighting the discoveries, honors and accomplishments of CSU’s esteemed researchers and artists.
“Each panel from left to right features an aspect of the scientific method: Inquire, Experiment, Analyze, and Communicate,” said Gravdahl.
But the designer went beyond simply illustrating a method, and made connections between science and creativity.
“Notions of separations between scientific and creative research fade away as we learn more about each,” said Gravdahl. “The scientific method is the concrete standard for scientific research. I chose to feature its aspects of investigation that best illustrate common energies.”
The choice to integrate art into the wall was a natural progression, said Alan Rudolph, Vice President for Research at CSU.
“Creative artistry and research share many of the fundamentals of critical thinking, analysis and expression of ideas,” he said. “We are delighted with the outstanding contribution John has made through his unique Research Wall design and message. This will leave a lasting legacy for the University demonstrating its commitment to the arts and sciences.”
View the award-winning design in person at the LSC ballroom entrance or a digitial version online. Merchandise featuring Gravdahl’s art is also available in the University Bookstore in the LSC.
