Thanks for the insightful article by James Purnell (“Creative industries need another Great British Rebrand”, Opinion, January 6).
I have spent almost 50 years in the graphic design (for “graphic” also read “brand”) industry. It has evolved from analogue to digital and gone from cottage industry to big, global business. Yet, it is still largely misunderstood, even by many of its own proponents, never mind the politicians.
Gratuitous gestures and “big statements” by government can do more harm than good. What we really need is another “Festival of Britain” where design is front and centre in celebrating all that is good and great about arts, science and technology in the UK. In 1951 we needed something to boost the nation and set us on a new optimistic course in the aftermath of the second world war. Surely, post-Brexit and Covid, we all need a further boost, with another bigger, optimistic statement? In 2026, it would be 75 years after the festival — maybe an auspicious year to stage it.
Myles Pinfold
Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, UK
