The New Reality: Graduating Class

John Bielenberg broke creative ground in his graphic design career. Now he wants to transform the industry itself.

Founded by the late Samuel Mockbee, the Rural Studio has now morphed into a hothouse of practical and pragmatic design, helping students to redefine the terms of socially relevant architecture.

They may be driven by the best of intentions or sense unique marketing opportunities. But companies large and small are discovering that undertaking socially responsible initiatives—being part of the solution—can have a positive effect on the bottom line.

Emily Pilloton and her spirited band of colleagues are creating a new model for 21st-century design activism.

This exceptionally smart, friendly and well-designed volume makes the case for design as a tool to solve some of the world’s biggest social problems in beautiful, sustainable and engaging ways.