Side B___________________________________________________2024 MFA Exhibition


The 2024 Boston University Graphic Design MFA exhibition embraces the metaphor of “Side B” to examine the process of making without traditional constraints. The B-side of an album has historically represented an opportunity for musicians to experiment, offering a place for less predictable tracks and unique compositions. In the hands of the graphic designers featured in this exhibition, “Side B” becomes a driving methodology for creating experimental work, deep cuts, new ways of thinking, and different ways of making. The concept symbolizes a willingness to defy expectations, explore uncommon tools, and present a multifaceted expression of craft.


Exhibition Process and Installation

The Methods of Display team worked around the clock designing and constructing all three different modes of displays for the MFA Graphic Design Thesis Exhibition. Influenced by the meaning behind Side B, we wanted our display methods to be interactive; incorporate flipping, turning, or simply creating visibility from a second side or angle. Part of the design process started with material costs, amounts, practicality of craft, and time warranted to build. Taking all of these separate aspects into account We came up with three distinct modes and parts of the exhibition. 

The first mode was the largest and most complicated to design and build. While my team participated in the design, preparation and construction, with the help from the rest of our class, we were able to build 13 large flippable poster structures made from wood. Each student presented their thesis posters on a single side. When the poster is flipped, a different students work is reviled.  Our second mode of display was a hanging poster wall. Each student designed a front and back poster revealing what Side B meant to them. The posters were hung perpendicular to the wall in order for viewers to see both sides. The third exhibition display took the form of a library. Shelving was installed in order to display student books and other physical work. Within the library space is a record wall where each student was given a record and was asked to design a side b label. The audience is invited to remove and play a record of their choice on the record player in the space. As a final touch, my team constructed a low coffee table display from re purposed panels used in last years thesis exhibition, symbolizing the B side to  last years BU's graphic design thesis exhibit.

Throughout this process I have found a new love for woodworking and craft. I am extremely interested in continuing working with exhibition installation and working with large physical materials. While there are many moving parts to preparing and curating an exhibition, I have enjoyed every moment working with my team and am honored to be apart of the 2024 BU Graphic Design MFA Thesis Exhibition.