Designing for Print: In-Depth Analysis of Picture No Galleries

In 2019 Jenny Harper and the Chartwell Trust set out to document the impact the lack of funding had on art galleries across Aotearoa. McCarthy Studio created the concept for Picture No Galleries, creating several scenes that illustrate the effect of a world without galleries.

The studio’s series of distinct scenes illustrates the consequences of a world devoid of art galleries. The narrative is interwoven with a subtle commentary on how funding cuts can erode cultural institutions, leaving communities without the vibrant spaces necessary for creative expression.

About McCarthy Studio

McCarthy Studio is a full-service design agency specializing in brand identity, campaign work, and digital design. Their projects are known for blending traditional print craftsmanship with modern design methodologies to create work that resonates both visually and emotionally.

Their thoughtful approach is driven by an in-depth understanding of client needs and audience engagement, which has helped them deliver award-winning, concept-driven projects.

• Project Link: Picture No Galleries
• Scope of Work: Illustration, Moving Image, Print & Packaging
• Awards: Designers Institute of New Zealand — Best Design Awards 2021
• Creative Directors: Matt Kitto, Stephen McCarthy
• Design Director: Stefan Downs
• Team Members: Joel Kitto, Richard M. Burson
• Client: The Chartwell Trust

Project Overview

In 2019, Jenny Harper, in collaboration with The Chartwell Trust, embarked on a mission to document the impact a lack of funding has on public art galleries across Aotearoa.

The outcome is Picture No Galleries — a publication that visualizes the stark realities of funding cuts through a series of evocative illustrations and tactile print experiences.

This project captures a critical cultural narrative but also provides an essential resource for directors, politicians, and public sector managers advocating for the community value of art galleries.

Creative Direction

McCarthy Studio conceptualized Picture No Galleries as more than just a design exercise. The project interrogates the question: What does a world without public art galleries look like?

It explores the absence of vibrant cultural spaces and the underlying community impact when these institutions are underfunded. The creative directors, Matt Kitto and Stephen McCarthy set out to craft a narrative both visually compelling and emotionally resonant, using design as a means to advocate for the public good.

The project’s narrative is based on extensive research and consultation. Over twenty local government senior leaders, politicians, and art gallery directors were interviewed to distill key messages about the galleries' essential services.

This rigorous research underpins the publication’s goal: to serve as a practical resource for influential decision-makers by summarizing how galleries contribute to community well-being, cultural tourism, and the broader public good.

Design Execution and Visual Analysis

Color Palette and Typography

The book’s design is anchored by a limited three-color palette, a deliberate choice that reinforces the narrative’s stark reality. The restrained color scheme creates a cohesive visual identity and amplifies the emotional impact of the illustrations.

Each color is chosen with precision, serving to highlight specific elements and guide the viewer’s eye through the narrative. This minimalist approach is reflective of the underlying message: when resources are scarce, every design element must carry meaning.

Innovative Print Techniques

One of the standout features of Picture No Galleries is its use of multiple die-cut Colorplan covers. This unique binding method adds a tactile quality to the book and underscores the meticulous craftsmanship behind the project.

The die-cut technique creates dynamic visual layers and textures, inviting the reader to engage with the book on a physical level. This attention to detail in print production elevates the overall experience, turning the book into a work of art in its own right.

Scene Composition and Narrative Impact

Each scene within the book is carefully composed to convey a sense of absence and introspection. The illustrations work with the text to highlight the stark contrast between a world with thriving galleries and one where art struggles to survive.

This duality prompts a deeper reflection on the societal and cultural implications of funding cuts. The visual narrative is both a call to action and a celebration of the enduring power of art, making it a compelling study of contemporary design and social commentary.

Impact Analysis

Picture No Galleries is a critical commentary on the state of public art funding in Aotearoa. By documenting the tangible impact of financial constraints on art galleries, the publication provides a much-needed resource for those advocating for change.

It bridges the gap between abstract policy debates and the lived realities of cultural institutions, ensuring that the public good and community value of galleries are communicated.

Client and Stakeholder Perspectives

The Chartwell Trust has emphasized the critical role of advocating for public art galleries. Picture No Galleries (2020) was developed to highlight the power, public good, and community value of these institutions.

It was noted that few accessible publications exist for directors, politicians, and public sector managers that effectively communicate the importance of public art galleries and their impact on society. This publication was designed to address that gap.

The Chartwell Trust

To ensure a comprehensive and well-informed resource, consultations were conducted with over twenty local government senior leaders, politicians, and art gallery directors.

The insights gathered were used to articulate key messages in support of public art galleries, summarizing the essential services they provide for the people of Aotearoa New Zealand.

The hope is that this resource enables decision-makers to better support art galleries — through funding, navigating the complexities of collections and loans, or recognizing their contributions to community well-being and cultural tourism.

This booklet has been dedicated to those working in public art galleries across Aotearoa New Zealand, and to the artists and their support networks. Acknowledgment has been extended to Jenny Harper for writing Picture No Galleries and to The Chartwell Trust, particularly Rob Gardiner and Sue Gardiner.

Additionally, gratitude has been expressed to McCarthy for the design, Creative New Zealand and Museums Aotearoa for their role in distribution, and David Simpson and Megan Shaw for their editorial contributions.

Tina Barton has been recognized for her incisive wisdom and final review, while Brown Bread has been credited for their project expertise. Thanks have also been given to all individuals interviewed during the booklet’s development.

Award Recognition and Industry Validation

The impact of Picture No Galleries is further underscored by its industry accolades. The publication was a finalist and received nominations in two categories — Business Communication and Design Craft — at The Designers Institute of New Zealand Best Awards.

Recognition is given to:

• McCarthy Studio for outstanding design
• Jenny Harper for her authorship
• Brown Bread Ltd for project expertise
• Sue and Rob Gardiner of The Chartwell Trust for their ongoing support
• David Simpson and Megan Shaw for editorial contributions

The first print edition was distributed with the support of Creative New Zealand and Museums Aotearoa, reaching local government leaders, mayors, council CEOs, and public gallery directors.

A significant presence was also made at the 2021 Aotearoa Art Fair — thanks to Ngātahi (the Public Gallery Collective) — where hundreds of copies were shared during VIP Day and throughout the event.

A 500-copy reprint edition is being developed for distribution to all secondary schools in New Zealand and tertiary and public libraries around the country. John and Jo Gow, the Connells Bay Sculpture Trust, and the Ake Ake Trust have all provided support for this endeavor.

Wrapping it Up!

Picture No Galleries is more than just a book — it’s a testament to the transformative power of design. Through its thoughtful use of color, innovative print techniques, and evocative illustrations, the project not only documents a pressing cultural issue but also challenges us to rethink the role of art in our communities.

Explore the full depth of Picture No Galleries and discover how innovative design can spark dialogue and drive change. Visit McCarthy Studio to learn more about their projects, engage with their creative insights, and find inspiration for your next design endeavor.

Join the conversation on how thoughtful design can shape our cultural future✍️