Founded by Belfast resident John Bielenberg six years ago, Project M has brought together young designers from different creative disciplines to create graphic instruments that investigate, explain and perhaps solve community problems through design.
The process developed by Bielenberg, taught in 2-to-4-week intensive laboratories, is known as Thinking Wrong. By following this unorthodox pathway to problem solving, using creative vision, inspiration, exploration and multiple processes, the collaborative efforts of the young designers lead them to new ways of making a difference in the world around them.
Examples of the impact Project M has had around the world including mounting a 48 Hour Global Video Blitz during the height of governmental collapse in Iceland (visit doblitz.com); launching Project 425, which provides a financial conduit of hope and clean water to Hale County, Ala.; rushing an “M-bulance” of supplies to graphic designers affected by Hurricane Katrina; pumping up micro-financing projects for the Woman’s Trust in Ghana; and seeding change of urban blight in East Baltimore parks through the “This Is Not Grass” book project.
Project M has developed a permanent lab site in Greensboro, Ala., but from March 8 to the 21st, Project M North will be based at Waterfall Arts Belfast. Bringing 13 enthusiastic designers together who are eager to Think Wrong, the project will pave the way for future endeavors that will impact Waterfall Arts, Belfast and the Midcoast.
Under the direction of Bielenberg and his advisors, the M’ers will live, eat and work together. Members of the extended community will be invited to communal dinners at Waterfall Arts to share their ideas and plans with the intent of propelling energy toward dynamic results.
Project M’s Web site, projectmlab.com, provides further insight into the range and depth of this initiative. More information on Project M’s schedule and products will be available at waterfallarts.org.