With International Peace Day around the corner, this thought has been circling in our minds: This year’s theme for International Peace day is “Cultivating a Culture of Peace” and how our beloved art of colors and forms – play a role in cultivating peace?

We decided to dive into it, and explore how design is not just about making things look aesthetically good, but about shaping environments, communities and yes, even fostering peace. 

In some places – maybe a park, a café, a temple or a cozy library – we feel an inexplicable sense of calm. We plan to stay for an hour, but end up lingering for three or four. These are the places that encourage positive interactions and reduce mental conflict. But why do some places hold this sense of calm and tranquility, while some others do not? The secret lies in the magic of design – where harmony is not just a concept but a lived experience. 

Design isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s a powerful tool that influences how we interact with our surroundings.  A thoughtfully designed space encourages a positive vibe, leading to creativity and peace. 

Symbols of Unity

You might wonder, what do logos or posters have to do with the peace of our day-to-day lives? 

Be it logos, icons, symbols or brand colors – they are more than just designs. They are symbols of unity and shared values. Iconic logos like Apple, The Olympics, Café Coffee Day, Peace Symbol transcends borders and resonate globally. A designer has the power to create logos that foster  a sense of belonging among people. 

In our everyday lives, imagine walking and seeing a ‘red plus symbol’. What comes to mind? From a child to an adult, even without any formal education, we recognize it as a symbol for a hospital. 

Before Independence, when many in our country were deprived of education, they were taught through symbols in visual campaigns These symbols guided people to the help they needed, showing the power of design to communicate and unify. 

Consider the “I ❤ NY” logo, designed by Milton Glaser in 1977. After the September 11 attacks, New York city faced economic and emotional crises. The government launched a campaign to uplift spirits and raise funds. “I ❤ NY” logo united people, reminding them of their love for the city. This is the power of design – to transform mindsets and bring people together. 

In today’s world, research shows that 60% of a product’s perceived quality is based on the trust and credibility people associate with its brand. Visual Identity plays a crucial role in this. Imagine a restaurant with a clear neat logo and another with a clumsy, imbalance design. Naturally you’d feel more welcome at the first one.

If a non-vegetarian restaurant had a green logo, you might mistakenly assume it’s vegetarian and pass
it by, no matter how great the food is. This shows how critical design is in building trust and attracting customers. 

Spreading Messages of Peace

Throughout history, visual art has played a crucial role in movements for peace, justice, and social change. From the iconic “Make Love, Not War” posters in the 60’s to the bold designs of today’s climate change campaigns, visual art has the unique ability to inspire action and promote understanding. 

Be it with a person, place, society or environment – we feel peace where we experience a sense of trust and belongingness. A powerful design like a poster, logo, symbol, icon, flag or visuals like a movie, breaks down barriers, transcends language and reaches people deeply on an emotional level, making them feel as One and together, thereby promoting peace and understanding!

A designer or an artist, are not creating just designs and visuals – but are crafting messages and environments that can change minds, open hearts, unite people and promote peace in this world! For this International Peace Day, we pledge to bring a piece of peace to this world – with every design we make from Reflections – Design Hub!