BACKGROUND 

The Ohio State University Department of Design website required a refresh to its website to better showcase outstanding student work across its programs.  

The goal of this project was to 1. research and sort students' archive and 2. curate and design selected exemplary student projects that represent each major within the department. The featured work includes undergraduate programs—Industrial Design, Interior Design, and Visual Communication Design—as well as graduate programs—Design Research and Development and Digital Animation and Interactive Media. The updated presentation highlights the diversity, quality, and innovation of student work across the department. 

PROCESS 

The process began with a comprehensive archive review of over 100 student works spanning five years. From this, I developed a selection framework — identifying first and second picks per major — evaluating each piece for how well it embodied the character of its discipline. 

Key criteria included variety of medium and field, distinctiveness of craft, range of color, and the ability to communicate each department's unique identity at a glance. Due to limited documentation, I sourced additional context through portfolio websites and LinkedIn to better understand each work's concept and intent — ensuring the final selections were represented with integrity and depth. 

Once works were selected, I collaged and recreated composite images from the original design sources, crafting original visual collateral for each major. These images were placed as hero banners across the site, serving simultaneously as departmental identity, student showcase, and design statement. Throughout the project, I collaborated closely with the OSU Design department chair and staff — translating institutional goals into cohesive visual decisions. 

TESTIMONY by GABE TIPPERY, OSU DESIGN STAFF

"Working with Borami Kang on our website refresh project has been an absolute pleasure. As our photography editor and art director, Borami brings a sharp eye for visual storytelling and a deep understanding of how design and imagery shape user experience. Her ability to curate and direct photography that aligns seamlessly with our brand identity has elevated the entire project. Borami is not only a talented creative but also a thoughtful collaborator. She listens deeply, communicates clearly, and brings a calm, focused energy to every meeting. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence are evident in every image she selects and every design decision she makes. She’s helped us move from concept to execution with clarity and style, and her contributions have made a lasting impact on the quality and cohesion of our site. I highly recommend Borami to any team looking for a visionary art director who can balance aesthetics with strategy and deliver outstanding results."