An enlightened approach to the ideas of our time
An annual conference held in Toronto each June, ideaCity draws together fascinating and provocative thinkers from all walks of life. The eclectic lineup for 2006 included: folk legend Pete Seeger, illusionist Franz Harary, futurist Gregory Harper, environmental activist Mike Papantonio, and controversial figure Lord Conrad Black.
Objectives
To create a comprehensive guide that would lead attendees effortlessly through the agenda of the three-day conference, including detailed schedules, maps, and information on presenters. The format also accommodated participants’ notes.
Goal
Context wanted to create a memorable book that was both an ideaCity companion piece and a valued reference and memento, full of inspiration that went beyond the three days. We wanted to design a book that inspired interaction. More than just a keepsake, we intended it to be an idea generator, a catalyst and record for insights and ideas, that encouraged participants to write or sketch within the pages and to stimulate thinking, feeling and believing.
Solution
Context found the perfect creative inspiration in The Age of Enlightenment. Known as a time of great thinkers who set mankind on a path of inquiry and ideas, the allusion was well-suited for this three-day conference that features the ideas and idealists of our time.
The cover depicts a well-thumbed book, with the words “Ideas Change the World” emblazoned on the front. Inside the guide, old-world elements are beautifully balanced with a vibrant, contemporary colour palette of chocolate, orange and rhodamine red that brings the book decisively into the current era.
Speakers are represented with a full-page photo adjacent to their biography. For each, Context created a unique illustrative treatment in sepia tones. The treatments highlight the personalities in a very immediate and distinct way.
Results
With the greater focus on the presenters and their ideas, ideaCity organizers felt it was their most effective book to date.
The ideaCity06 Conference Guide was honoured with inclusion in the “Design at Work 2006” Annual from the Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario.
