Showcase, UWE Bristol

Showcase is the graduate platform and end-of-year exhibition for the students of the University of the West of England (Bristol) in the College of Arts, Technology and Environment (CATE). The platform and its identity was created in 2020 and refreshed in 2023 by Rhombus under creative direction of James Ratcliffe. Originally launched as a digital showcase during the COVID-19 pandemic, the platform was expanded as part of a broader rebrand accompanying the return of the physical end-of-year show. The website continues to serve as a portfolio space for graduates to present their work and connect with potential employers and collaborators.

The identity takes cues from the “white cube” gallery model. A restrained monochrome palette and generous white space position the students’ work as the central visual element across the website and printed materials. Typography is set in Swiss Typefaces’ Suisse Works and Suisse Int’l. From the article “Showcasing creativity” by The Brand Identity:

The typographic direction maintains the professional look of the brand, thanks to Rhombus’ decision to use the elegant, modern and cutting-edge Suisse font family which, Ratcliffe explains, “felt right for an identity that needed to bridge art and education.” Suisse Works is used for the wordmark for its classical flair and ability to “stand alone as a logo without fancy customisation.” The supporting typeface, Suisse Int’l, was chosen for its versatility and legibility, ensuring a clear hierarchy, and its utilitarian ability to maintain accessibility across the extensive website.