ARTA unveils the branding vision for the 2026 In-House Design Awards
Interview with Virginia Quist RGD, Alberta Retired Teachers' Assocation
The visual identity for the 2026 RGD In-House Design Awards, created by the team at ARTA (Alberta Retired Teachers' Association), reflects the everyday reality of in-house designers—the creativity, collaboration and occasional chaos that unfold within office walls.
“Designing something for a demographic we are part of proved to be both exciting and, at times, more challenging. As our Junior Designer Kim mentioned, it’s like designing your own logo or website—sometimes you get so caught up in the details that it can be hard to see the whole picture.”
Virginia Quist RGD
Grounded in a minimal office environment, the identity positions the creative department as a vibrant burst of colour within an otherwise neutral setting. This contrast represents the unique perspectives and energy in-house teams bring to their organizations, enriching workplaces across industries.
Open to internal creative teams in Canada and internationally, the RGD In-House Design Awards celebrate outstanding work produced within organizations across sectors. Teams may submit projects created in partnership with external studios, provided the majority of the work was completed in-house.
The program offers in-house designers an opportunity to showcase their work, elevate the visibility of in-house design and gain recognition within the broader design community.
“Just getting to work with the RGD is such an honour. It’s amazing to be part of such an awesome organization, and having the chance to create pieces that celebrate our fellow in-house designers is incredibly meaningful. We hope participants see the potential in the work they create every day, supported by a design that helps it truly shine.”
Virginia Quist RGD
"The dynamic, scribble-like lines within the colourful forms symbolize the non-linear nature of creativity and the many paths ideas take within an office environment. The identity leans into the RGD brand to reinforce recognition on a global stage, balancing clarity with playfulness. The result is a clean, engaging system with strong visuals designed to capture attention." says Virginia Quist RGD, Manager, Creative Services at ARTA.
A structured grid anchors the identity, providing both discipline and freedom. It serves as a framework that mirrors the walls housing creative minds—and the ideas that live within them—allowing space to experiment while maintaining cohesion.
Virginia Quist RGD
Alberta Retired Teachers' Assocation
With a passion for creating that spans over two decades, I am a seasoned graphic designer, photographer, and artist. My work is fuelled by an insatiable curiosity and a joyful spirit. Embracing the evolving landscape of visual and communication arts, I find fulfillment in continual learning and exploring diverse techniques to enhance my skills, including watercolour painting, embroidery and digital art. Firm in the belief that each day brings new opportunities for growth, I saturate my work with a love for colour. Through my designs and creations, I aim to not just captivate, but to enchant and spark curiosity, weaving visual narratives that resonate with the audience.
