Graphic Design: Maddison Graphic help us look at The Methodist Church

Design practice and religious practice don’t often go hand in hand, but thanks to Norwich’s Maddison Graphic The Methodist Church is starting to shake off some of its stuffier visual associations – think chintzy plates of scalloped biscuits passed round beige rooms by dowdily-dressed spinsters – moving into classier territory.

Two recent publications produced for their use feature crisp, contemporary design that, surprisingly, doesn’t feel at all out of place as a means of religious communication. Both The Fruitful Field and A Handbook for New Superintendents: Circuit Processes (admittedly that’s still quite a stuffy name) are simple, beautifully designed pieces of print that are entirely fit for purpose.

Maddison Graphic are making waves in Norwich’s design scene by working almost exclusively with local clients, forgoing the big bucks available from multinational companies in favour of forging long-term relationships with smaller businesses in their surrounding area. Sceptics would argue that this inhibits the scope and scale of their work, but a quick browse through their recently updated portfolio is enough to dispel this idea. They’re making fantastic work for an unusual roster of clients, and making Norwich look good and communicate better in the process.