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Visual Communication (MA)

Gabriel Medina

Black and white image with vector line work

Gabriel Medina (b.1998) is a multidisciplinary designer and artist from the San Francisco Bay Area. He works with different mediums to create nuanced layers of communication that question current systems and designs them in potential realities. 


During his time at the Royal College of Art, his research has explored identity plurality, seeking to understand the relationship between the overlapping spheres of influence that form the essence of self. Gabriel’s research takes a hybrid approach by linking different visual cultural elements and placing them in communication — offering a space for reflection, speculation and narrative. 


In addition to the RCA, he has studied at San Francisco State University, Central Saint Martins and Camberwell College of Art — where he received his BA in Graphic Design in 2020.



Degree Details

School of CommunicationVisual Communication (MA)RCA2023 at Battersea and Kensington

RCA Kensington, Darwin Building, Fourth floor

Series of photos of Gabriel printing in print lab

My project uses a model called ‘Hybrid Interface’’, a process that involves layering different visual-cultural elements to create nuanced communication around the concept of identity plurality. Using image, language and diagram as inputs, the model explores how the systematic hybridization of these layers can create visual plurality that mirrors identity plurality. It embraces complexity – recognizing identity as ever-evolving, existing in a perpetual state of flux. 


By juxtaposing firm system thinking with the elastic and personal nature of identity, the Hybrid Interface speculates how formal modes of inquiry can be subverted for personal narrative and connection.


The goal of this project is to position graphic design as a critical and reflective tool, capable of fostering deeper understanding and dialogue around the complexities of self. 



Risograph print on the left, close up image of someones face on the right
Model diagram showing how the Hybrid Interface works
Hybrid Interface Model
Black and white image of a redwood forrest on the left, risograph print on the right
Two red and blue risograph prints on the left and right
Culture + Society Interface / Reflection + Experience Interface
Green and blue gradient background with diagrams overlayed on top
Metaphysical diagrams
Various typefaces in white on a black background
Type design and language manifestations
Three TVs, one with an eye, one with words, one with a head diagram
Image, Language, Diagram
Blue and Red risograph prints on a black and white background
Model Testing
Black and white line work showing graphic compositions.
Selection of works created in the process of refining the hybrid interfacing process. Various experiments were done such as hybridizing digital and analog tools to create letter and graphic forms, overlaying different logics and subverting information structures.

Medium:

Risograph

Size:

297 x 420 mm
design-researchgraphic-designtypography
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Royal College of Art

Registered Office: Royal College of Art,
Kensington Gore, South Kensington,
London SW7 2EU