INÊS BARBOSA DA COSTA
DEFISE
FOUNDATION
Role: Brand Designer, Creative Director
Year: 2025
The Defise Foundation is a London-based organisation dedicated to promoting Congolese art and fostering cultural exchange between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the wider world. Their mission extends beyond exhibitions, building bridges between artists, collectors, and communities through accessible platforms and engaging storytelling.
I developed the foundation’s visual identity by creating a system capable of translating their mission into a recognisable, versatile brand that could live across print, digital, and environmental applications.
The challenge was to create a design language that felt contemporary and globally relevant, yet deeply rooted in Congolese culture. I drew inspiration from geometric forms found in Congolese artistic traditions, distilling them into a refined monogram that merges the letters D and F. An open circular form symbolises space for emerging talent and cultural exchange, while a horizontal baseline conveys stability, continuity, and the foundation’s enduring commitment to the arts.
The visual identity was paired with a warm yet sophisticated colour palette and clean, precise typography — creating a balance between cultural heritage and modernity.
In addition to the core brand identity, I extended the system into a foundation website. Designed as a clean, intuitive platform, the website ensures the art takes centre stage while maintaining a cohesive connection to the brand’s values and aesthetic.
The result is a visual identity that encapsulates The Defise Foundation’s mission: to celebrate Congolese art, foster cultural exchange, and create accessible spaces for dialogue. Through a contemporary yet culturally grounded design, the brand now has the tools to connect with global audiences while remaining true to its roots.