ONE Institute

As the longest-running LGBTQ+ advocacy group in the U.S., home to the nation’s first queer magazine, and the world’s largest repository of LGBTQ+ artifacts, the ONE Institute holds an invaluable place in history. Yet despite their cultural weight, the brand lacked the vision and vibrancy it deserved. Recognizing the Institute’s significance to Los Angeles, I set out to reframe their story. Shifting from being seen solely as an academic institution to becoming a cultural cornerstone for the city’s queer and allied communities.

Information

ArtCenter

MFA Program

Credits

Images from

ONE Archives

Featured Artist

Scott Csoke

Poem by

Kurt Palumbo

Past. Present. Proud.

When beginning this project, I knew I wanted to lean into the Institute’s history. Using the masthead from their midcentury magazine as a starting point, I developed a dynamic logo system that reflects the eclectic energy of the community they serve.

Redefining resistance.

The main challenge I set for myself with this project was to visually define what it means to be “queer.” With queerness being the rejection and refusal of societal norms, I wanted to explore design gestures that push against what’s expected. From type that dances across the page to bold, unconventional color pairings, every decision was made to embody queerness.

Queering the spectrum.

Taking the “queer” concept one step further, I dove into the Institute’s digital archives and remixed their historic black-and-white photos with a reworked, shuffled color spectrum.

The future doesn’t write itself.

From the outset of this project, I knew I wanted to revive the Institute’s magazine. What began in the 1950s and '60s as a publication focused on gay men’s issues, I sought to expand its reach to be more inclusive of today’s broader queer community.

With the first reissue centered on what it means to be queer today, I collaborated with contemporary artists and writers, while also drawing from articles found in the original magazine, to explore this theme. What's revealed is both how much has changed and how many struggles remain the same.

Telling our story.

As the primary point of contact for the public, I wanted to shift the Institute’s website from academic to accessible. What was once a dense, intimidating online archive is now a space where visitors can explore at their own pace. Structured like physical archival drawers, the site showcases curated collections, events, and the Institute’s history.

Out in the streets.

To educate the public on this resource we have in our city, I would place out-of-home ads strategically across LA’s creative neighborhoods and near key cultural institutions.

Creating community.

As a way to build community, I developed a series of events designed to bring the public to the Institute in person. From film screenings to art shows and lectures, the Institute shifts from being a solely academic space to becoming a cultural cornerstone for the city.

Building belonging.

As an extension of the brand, I wanted to create pieces that evoke a lifestyle brand. Designed for those who identify with the Institute’s mission and are proud to represent it within their community.

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