MrsKate Dilanchian

Throughout my career, I've collaborated with senior management in various large companies in New York and Sydney, creating targeted and effective designs for both corporate and educational sectors. Over my 25+ years in design practice, I've continually refined and applied human-centered techniques to all my work. I believe that working closely with people to imagine new ways to communicate their ideas and bring them to life is crucial for any successful project. My well-developed visual vocabulary and my ability to lead and manage multi-stakeholder relationships are among my key strengths.

I am currently teaching at The University of Technology Sydney and Torrens University/Billy Blue Design School, where I have a strong interest in branding and research. My current PhD research at Deakin University focuses on uncovering emerging symbols that reflect a contemporary approach to Australia’s identity. This exploration aims to gain insights into the evolving cultural landscape of the nation.

My interest in this research study comes from a personal fascination with Australian symbols, which began when I moved to Australia in 1988 as an young graphic designer. I was immediately intrigued by the unique range of symbols representing the nation, from kangaroos and koalas to rosellas and gum leaves, the Opera House, and Uluru. Over time, the widespread use of the map of Australia as a symbol captured my attention. This contrasted with my experience in the United States, where the flag's red, white, and blue colours and its stars and stripes are common national symbols. I was curious how one image, the map of Australia, could appear in many different forms yet still represent the nation effectively. This curiosity led to my Master of Design Research, titled "The Graphic Gift: A Study of the Map of Australia" (2011), which demonstrated the importance of shape in the map's versatility and recognition as an effective graphic symbol.

Building on my previous research, my PhD examines new and diverse representations to identify symbols that resonate with Australia's current and future identity. Additionally, this research explores how these symbols can influence and be influenced by various cultural, social, and political factors. It considers how contemporary Australian symbols can foster a sense of unity and inclusivity, representing the nation's diversity and modern values. Furthermore, the research investigates the role of communication designers in this process as facilitators and negotiators in shaping visual perceptions and emphasising the necessity of a participatory approach to identify emerging symbols.