131 Design is no ordinary design agency.  As well as delivering commercial graphic design and photography for print and web based applications, we also work with groups of young people across Hampshire, running creative workshops. Our distinctive style of high tempo, high out-put workshops have established a dynamic niche in this market.

We are able to do this as Dan Bernard and Gail Baird of 131, have between them taught and lectured in art, design, graphics and photography. Whilst in Further and Higher Education, they established new courses and innovative teaching and learning strategies for marginalised young people, winning two Beacon Awards.

‘Discovering D-Day’ is 131’s latest project. Commissioned by Portsmouth’s Museum and Records Service (PMRS), 131 designed and facilitated a series of creative workshops for the young people at Hillside Young Peoples Centre in

Paulsgrove, North Portsmouth.   The aim of the project was to engage young people aged 8 – 18, an age group that museums find difficult to reach, with the Museum’s collections to develop and create their own responses.

Gail and Dan planned the project in three parts to include a series of art-based workshops with visits to a range of cultural and historic venues, including the D-Day Museum. Graffiti Art was used as a hook for the first set of workshops, with the ‘Secret Art’ workshops following.  The whole project concluded with an exhibition ‘Margins’ and a book, ‘Introducing the ‘M’ word’, Engaging young people with Museums and Cultural Services’. The book is a permanent record, credible legacy and celebration of the work and commitment of the young people of Hillside Young Peoples Centre and all those involved.  In addition to showcasing the work and talents of the young people at the centre, ‘Introducing the ‘M’ word’ documents the successes and hurdles encountered whilst delivering the project and can be used as a model for future projects to engage young people with their culture and heritage. It was published through Tricorn Books, a trading name of 131 Design. The exhibition ‘Margins’, came about through discussions with the Ashcroft Arts Centre, Fareham. 131 Design had been working with a number of different groups of young people across Hampshire and wanted an exhibition at a high profile, professional arts centre to mark the ending of the Hillside project and as an opportunity to showcase work from the other groups of young people.  It is planned for Margins to become an annual exhibition for young people, for young people.

“None of this would have been possible if it wasn’t for you two”.  Katherine Webber, Discovering D-Day Project Officer.

“This is a terrific publication.  An inspirational case study and strong images.  I particularly like the mono-prints.”
Peter Taylor, Development Worker. Find Your Talent – PUSH

Other groups we have worked with include Young Carers, Fratton, young people in Rowner, Gosport and Hilsea, Hampshire.