As the owner of a graphic design studio based in Sydney, I’m always looking for opportunities to step outside the day-to-day and connect with fresh ideas. This year, attending the LA Design Festival gave me exactly that. Immersing myself in the graphic design exhibitions reminded me why I first fell in love with this industry, the energy, experimentation, and ability to spark conversation through visual storytelling.

What stood out most was the range of approaches. Some studios pushed typography to its limits, stretched, layered, and sculptural forms that felt more like art installations than typefaces. In contrast, other exhibitions leaned into minimalism, where pared-back layouts and restrained colour palettes carried an understated power. Experiencing both extremes side by side reinforced just how limitless graphic design can be.

A highlight for me was the “Future Narratives” showcase, where local studios explored themes of sustainability, inclusivity, and digital identity. These works weren’t just visually striking; they were deeply thought-provoking. It was a reminder that design is more than communication,  it’s a cultural force that can challenge, inspire, and shift perspectives.

Interactive elements also caught my eye. At one installation, visitors could manipulate projected visuals with movement, creating spontaneous designs in real time. It felt playful but also spoke to the evolving role of technology in design, where audiences become participants, not just viewers.

The LA Design Festival reinforced for me that graphic design is alive, adaptive, and deeply connected to the issues shaping our world. It’s a reminder of the role we play as designers: not just to make things look good, but to make them meaningful.

At Fresco Creative, we bring this same philosophy to our work, thoughtful, strategic design that connects brands with audiences in meaningful ways. Discover more about Fresco Creative here.