Nhu-Phi Dang, the student behind Lime Grove's Open Studios identity

The first ever visual identity for the School of Pre-Degree Studies’ inaugural shows ( 26-28 May 2026), was designed by student Nhu-Phi Dang.

Her concept was selected by members of staff at the School of Pre-degree Studies (Lime Grove) who were impressed by the way it; "celebrates the Lime Grove community and its students."

The Communications team caught up with her to find out how she came to study at Lime Grove, her course, the process of creating a winning design and what she’ll be doing next.

Hi Nhu-Phi! Congratulations on creating the winning design for the very first Open Studios at Lime Grove. 

We have a few questions about your design. Firstly, how did you come up with the concept?

Thanks! As Open Studios brings together students from many different courses, I wanted to create something that represented everyone involved. I started thinking about what connects us all, and for me, it was the spaces we share every day, where we work, meet and spend time together. That became the starting point for my concept.

And what was the first step in bringing your concept to life?

I started by taking photographs around the building, from the studios and workshops to the library, canteen, student lounge and courtyard. I looked at how students gathered and used these spaces, particularly the shapes created by people sitting around tables or within a room. I then began simplifying these observations into geometric patterns.

What was your visual design used for? 

I designed posters, social media content, and digital visuals for the website and Eventbrite page. The social media assets were probably the most challenging, as I wanted them to feel engaging and energetic in a format people interact with very quickly. I also used motion to make them feel more playful and bring the identity to life.

What was the highlight of the project for you?

Definitely the sketching stage. I had a lot of fun creating the small symbols and characters that became part of the identity, and exploring how simple shapes could represent people and shared spaces. Seeing those initial sketches come together was also really exciting.

What was it like leading this project on your own?

Although I developed the design independently, feedback from my tutors and classmates was really valuable. My tutors helped me understand how to respond to a real brief and create an identity that felt right for the event. I also wanted my classmates’ opinions, as the design was ultimately there to invite people to see their work. It was really encouraging that there was a clear favourite, and it gave me confidence in the final direction.

What has this process taught you?

Many things, but I'd say particularly the value of starting from real observation, especially when designing for a community and event. It also made me realise how much I think through drawing: sketching is often how I explore ideas and find the direction I want to take.

And how did you become a student at Lime Grove?

I was originally studying engineering at university.  It just so happened that one summer I decided to take a workshop at Beaux-arts, the famous art school in France, where I’m from and I enjoyed the  workshop so much that I decided I wanted to switch to art.

Amazing! And what a great demonstration of the power of art to change our whole life trajectory. So, you were based in Paris when you decided to study art. How did you arrive at Lime Grove, London?

I know! France has an impressive number of art schools, but studying art in France is different to here in the UK. You have to make your study choices quite early on in France and then it’s hard to change programmes.

I started researching courses and went to a recruitment Open Day that UAL held in Paris. The school of pre-degree studies sounded like what I was looking for and also, I was interested in living in a new city.

I see. So which course did you take?

Athough I was originally interested in pursuing art, in the end I applied for the Foundation course, specialising in Graphic Design.

I wasnt interested in design at first, however with more information I felt that this course suited me best.

What was it like studying at Lime Grove?

What really stood out to me was how international it was. I met people from so many different places, and I loved seeing how their cultures and personal experiences came through in the way they created. It made the course feel really inspiring, because you were constantly discovering new references and ways of thinking. I also loved how much freedom we had: if you had an idea, even if it was something completely new to you, there were always tutors or technicians who would help you figure out how to make it happen.

Any highlights of your time at Lime Grove?

A big highlight for me was being able to try so many different workshops, especially risograph printing and screen printing. I loved discovering new processes and learning through making. I also discovered a real interest in motion design, which is something I would love to explore further, and I made some really good friends along the way.

Would you recommend Lime Grove as a place to study?

Yes, I definitely would. Choosing to pursue art and design was quite a last-minute decision for me, and I came into the Foundation course without having everything figured out. That is one of the reasons why I found it so valuable: it gives you the time and freedom to explore different areas before committing to one particular path. In just one year, I have learnt so much about what I enjoy making, how I like to work and the creative processes that suit me best. I have also experimented with materials and techniques I had never tried before, and gained a lot more confidence in myself creatively.

Your course is almost over. Will you be continuing your studies at UAL?

Yes! Next year, I will be studying Graphic Communication Design at Central Saint Martins. I’m excited to continue developing my practice, learn new techniques and explore where graphic design can take me.

Follow our Instagram channel for behind-the-scenes content from this year's Open Studios with students and staff.

Follow Nhu-Phi on Instagram