The Benson Foundation for Photographic Research is a modern archival space dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of photography. Each exhibition spans distinct artistic and cultural movements, from Victorian photography to Bauhaus Modernism and High Modernism. While these exhibitions celebrate photography’s evolution, the Foundation lacked a cohesive visual identity that could unify its brand while paying homage to the unique aesthetics of each time period. They needed a design approach that could balance historical reverence with a clean, modern sensibility, reflecting both the archival and contemporary nature of their mission.

Research into the Foundation’s audience and exhibitions revealed a tension between two needs: maintaining a cohesive brand identity and offering a visual nod to the distinct eras showcased. By adopting a minimalist design language, the Foundation could create a unifying framework, while subtle motifs inspired by each exhibition’s time period could preserve the individuality of the showcased styles. This approach would honor the artform’s historical richness while emphasizing the Foundation’s role as a modern steward of photographic history.

We developed a minimalist visual identity centered on a clean line motif that connects each exhibition while adapting to its distinct aesthetic. Each exhibition poster integrates subtle design elements inspired by its respective era—ornate flourishes for the Victorian period, geometric forms for Bauhaus Modernism, and sleek, asymmetrical layouts for High Modernism. This flexible yet cohesive system ensures the Foundation’s brand image remains consistent while celebrating the diversity of photographic history.