What's your connection to RMIT Europe and how did the project come about?
I studied graphic design at BAU, the College of Arts and Design Barcelona. BAU and RMIT have a longstanding partnership and I was asked to develop the image for the 10th anniversary of the Australian university in Europe.
How did you feel being asked to be a part of this milestone?
It was such an exciting challenge! I felt happy and fortunate, as well as curious about the briefing by RMIT and its necessities, wishes, requirements and possibilities.
What was your inspiration for your piece of work?
I was asked to develop a piece of work which could reference the past 10 years of the university, while reflecting, breathing and being inspired specifically by Barcelona. After investigating, I looked at the modernist architecture which is very important in Barcelona. This led me to one of its essential elements, the little coloured tiles (known as trencadís in Catalan). I saw them as modular elements which can create bigger structures by their union, as RMIT achieved in Europe. RMIT Europe reached this exciting milestone thanks to the sum of its parts and specifically the people who made it possible.
What techniques did you use to create this artwork?
I sketched it on paper, retouching and rethinking details and compositions. After that, I vectorised it through digital tools like Illustrator, finishing the artwork and working a lot on colours, expressions and final details.
What do you hope viewers take away from this artwork?
I hope they get part of the meaning and feeling of doing something together, and how the sum of different little parts can create something bigger. I hope they take away this positive feeling of celebration and joy after learning about 10 years of RMIT Europe.
What does this piece mean to you?
This piece has become an important one to me. It has been a beautiful process; of course, with its ups and downs, moments of doubt and problems to solve. It was also such a pleasure working with the wonderful team at RMIT.
Listen to an interview with Sílvia Vallhonrat on the logo and illustration
Learn more about RMIT Europe's ten years of impact in Europe
