The main aspect of the Shades of noir website that I enjoy using is the Creative Database. The Creative Database is a platform that showcases creatives from a range of fields such as activism, broadcasting, ceramics, poetry, illustration, etc. However, something that makes the Creative Database stand out from other resources is its focus on championing creatives of colour that are usually not celebrated within the mainstream definitions of art and design.
To a former student of colour like myself, I cannot imagine how invaluable and re-affirming it is to see your tutors using references by artists and academics of colour, showcasing creatives that exist outside the narrow Eurocentric definition of design we are exposed to within institutions like UAL.
Apart from not only being shown references of creatives of colour, many underestimate the power of being able to see those who look like you existing and thriving in spaces you one day hope to operate in. It feels like one less challenge knowing there is a space for those who look, think and view the world like you – a place you are not only welcomed but celebrated within the creative sector.
I cannot recommend the Creative Database enough as a tool to research outside the repetitive references used and to learn about the inspirations, processes and approaches that exist outside predominately Eurocentric design narratives.
Within my own teaching practice, I would use the Creative database as a resource to research artists and designers out there, teach my students about different processes and ways of thinking/ approaching a topic. It is a great opportunity to show students how designers may use aspects of their identities in their work, possibly even thinking through making, communicating with different audiences or communities.
Bibliography:
Creatives Database. n.d. Creatives Database. [online] Available at: <http://www.shadesofnoir.org.uk/creatives/?_ga=2.166166460.381241077.1659372450-464788335.1651059033>.