08 July 2026
Graphic Design student Hajir Obaidi earns exhibition recognition at an international poster exhibition
Hajir Obaidi, a student in the Department of Graphic Design at the Faculty of Fine Arts, İstanbul Gelişim University, has earned exhibition recognition through the international open call for the 7th International Poster Exhibition, organized under the theme “What Unites Us.” Selected among works by designers from different countries, Obaidi interpreted the concept of unity through the coexistence of diversity in her poster design. In an interview following this achievement, she shared her approach to the theme, her creative process, and the valuable experiences she gained from participating in an international exhibition, offering inspiring insights for emerging designers.
Hajir Obaidi, a student in the Department of Graphic Design at the Faculty of Fine Arts, İstanbul Gelişim University, has achieved a significant international success by having her work selected for exhibition at the 7th International Poster Exhibition. Her poster was chosen through the international open call organized under the theme “What Unites Us” and was exhibited alongside works by designers from different countries.
Encouraging reflections on social unity, shared values, and cultural diversity, the “What Unites Us” theme offered participants a broad conceptual framework for interpretation. Hajir Obaidi approached the theme through the idea that unity is created not by uniformity, but by the coexistence of differences. In her poster, she emphasized the importance of diverse identities and perspectives existing together, interpreting the concept of unity through a layered visual language.
Following this international achievement, Obaidi shared insights into her creative process in a short interview. Reflecting on her interpretation of the theme, she explained that she believed it could hold different meanings for different people. According to her, unity does not mean that everyone is the same; rather, it is the ability of different individuals to coexist. She stated that this idea inspired her to combine various visual elements within her design to represent a shared common ground while leaving room for viewers to develop their own interpretations.
Speaking about her design process, Obaidi noted that she began by researching the theme and examining how concepts such as unity and belonging could be translated into visual language. She experimented with multiple sketches before selecting the concept she felt best expressed her ideas. She also explained that building a layered composition allowed her to enrich both the visual impact and the conceptual depth of the poster. Furthermore, she deliberately employed color, contrast, and visual hierarchy to strengthen the communication of her message.
Obaidi described being selected for an international exhibition as a highly motivating experience. She emphasized that exhibiting alongside designers from different countries provided valuable opportunities for both personal and professional growth. Observing a wide range of creative approaches from around the world broadened her perspective and reinforced the importance of international platforms in supporting the development of emerging designers.
The Department of Graphic Design at the Faculty of Fine Arts, İstanbul Gelişim University, continues to encourage its students to participate in national and international art and design events. Hajir Obaidi’s success at the 7th International Poster Exhibition reflects the department’s commitment to fostering creativity, supporting artistic production, and enabling students to gain visibility on the international stage while strengthening their professional development.