Raphaël John is a French graphic and object designer who graduated from École nationale supérieure des Arts Décoratifs (EnsAD) in 2014. As a partner at c-album (2021–2025), he contributed to signage and wayfinding design projects for major French heritage sites, including Notre-Dame de Paris and the Basilica of Saint-Denis.

Abstract:
How can graphic design reinterpret the identity of a historic monument while respecting its cultural and architectural heritage? TABULA is an interactive design project presenting the creative process behind the new visual identity of Notre-Dame de Paris following the 2019 fire and subsequent restoration. Through the presentation of TABULA, a large-format visual publication, the speakers will share how historical research, graphic experimentation, typography, and contemporary design approaches contributed to reimagining the cathedral’s visual language.

The seminar invites students to explore the intersection of cultural heritage, graphic design, and visual communication, highlighting the role of design in connecting historical monuments with contemporary audiences.