While my Editors, Nikki and Felicity are busy putting the final touches to i-MAD, our Media, Art and Design magazine due out at the end of the month, I have taken it upon myself to show the world an example of the top editorial we are including in this issue. Quick! While their backs are turned:

Here is a glimpse of an article written by Tony Parker, a Council Member of the Design Institute of New Zealand:

Why Study Design in New Zealand?

Lord of the Rings, Apple and Nike have something in common apart from being internationally, wildly successful. New Zealand educated designers at the leading edge of their creative engine rooms. The design programmes that nurtured and educated these outstanding talents welcomes international students and provides a unique creative experience with a strong track record of success across the full spectrum of design specialist subjects.

Design education in New Zealand is strongly focused around project based studio teaching delivered through internationally bench-marked curricula quality assured by the New Zealand Government. Design programmes at both university and technical institutes are taught by internationally qualified academics who have successful professional careers. At university level teaching is research led and integrates leading edge theoretical propositions and new knowledge with the traditions of making and practise using the very latest technology, techniques and methods. Design institutes are well resourced with up to date facilities and equipment that encourage students to explore both new and emerging technology as well as traditional materials and processes. Class sizes are based on personal contact with supervisors and group engagement with fellow students.

Image: Michelle Apperley, Altered Vista in an Urban Landscape. Gold winner for the Student category form the Designers Institute of New Zealand Best Design Awards 2008.

To read the rest of this article visit us again at the end of the month when we launch i-MAD, or better yet subscribe to our magazine service free to receive notice of all our publishing activity!