Refuge Canada
Agency Work | 2014–2015
Role: Digital Creative Direction, Art Direction, UI/UX Design, Interactive Build
The Ask
The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 wanted to create interactive experiences for Refuge Canada, an exhibition exploring Canada's complex history with refugees, including the times people were turned away.
The challenge was to make difficult, emotionally charged stories approachable while treating the subject with sensitivity.
The Approach
Working with Form Media, we developed a restrained visual language that allowed the stories to take centre stage.
The design used shifts in layout and dossier-style markings inspired by official immigration documents, reflecting the uncertainty and life-changing decisions involved in seeking refuge.
What I Did
Helped shape the visual direction and interaction design for the exhibition's touch-screen experiences.
Developed a graphic language that reflected the subject matter without distracting from the stories.
Organised complex content into clear, intuitive pathways for visitors.
Collaborated with developers and curatorial teams to balance usability, storytelling and historical sensitivity.
Impact
Helped bring complex and deeply personal histories into an interactive visitor experience.
Created interfaces that supported exploration while keeping the focus on the people and stories behind the exhibition.
