Exhibit Columbus is a program that interprets Columbus, Indiana’s modernist design heritage and engages the community through events, publications, and educational activities. The cycle *Public by Design* focused on activating the downtown area through collaborations between the local community, architects, and landscape architects. This cycle celebrated creative methods of collaboration that communities and designers could use to grow a sense of belonging and connection in public spaces.

The development of a communication system presented the opportunity to work within an existing brand and design identity. This modernist foundation—bold shapes and colors, rooted in the reliance of Futura as a main typeface—allowed this cycle to develop into an authentic reflection of the unique sense of place and identity.

The wayfinding and signage system needed to help orient visitors to each installation, and define a hierarchy of information that points towards the next one in a manner that is clear, concise, and consistent. The system was experimental and ephemeral. They existed as a temporal set of signals—set apart from the noisy elements of civic regulation and organization—and help residents and visitors navigate the remarkable set of installations and interventions that encompass this cycle.