Katherine Easthill

About

Graphic designer & design historian. 

Prior to studying the History of Design MA, I completed my Graphic Design BA at Central Saint Martins and then worked both in house and freelance for five years. My personal creative practice has always been research-led and inspired by how design can shape and influence our society. Alongside this work I also had the opportunity to assist a private collector specialising in ephemera from different subcultures, music and political movements. The collection contained materials such as rave, jungle, and sound system flyers; visual materials from musicians like Cosey Fanni Tutti; political publications such as Class War; and printed objects produced at Greenham Common Women’s Peace Camp.

My first project on this masters, the object essay, looked at how illustration was first used on the front pages of newspapers in Britain in the mid-19th century. Through this research I found a place where my interests in politics, mass media, print and graphic design combined. I wanted to further this research in my dissertation and examine how sensationalism and the creation of impact on the front page of newspapers, particularly tabloids, developed during other design shifts in print. My dissertation, Black & White & Red All Over, looked at the introduction of colour and how this changed the design of the front page of The Sun and influenced the way news items were presented.

Alongside my studies I led and coordinated the creation of a student publication and event, PUB. This was designed in collaboration with another student, Greer Lockyear. I collaborated again with Greer in the creation of the logo and identity for our final year symposium, i❤ things, as well as working together on designing the layout and coordinating the printing for the corresponding publication. Additionally, I had the opportunity to assist at various conferences at the V&A throughout the course, and participate in a student placement with the museum’s Design & Digital curation team.

Instagram: @katherine.easthill | Website: katherineeasthill.com