SECULARISM IN PANTHÉON

Graphic Design about Secularism in Pantheon

Secularism in Pantheon is an educational graphic design project and was developed around the concept of secularism, known in France as “laïcité”. Created in collaboration with students from Jean Moulin Middle School in Arnouville, the project aimed to encourage reflection on one of the fundamental principles of the French Republic through artistic creation and visual communication.

Rather than presenting secularism as an abstract legal concept, the workshop invited students to explore its meaning through people, ideas and historical references. Each participant contributed to the selection of figures that, in their opinion, represented important values linked to freedom of conscience, equality, citizenship and respect for diversity.

The final graphic composition brings together a variety of personalities chosen by the students themselves. Each character is accompanied by keywords that explain the reasons behind their selection. These words function as visual markers, helping viewers understand the values and ideas associated with each figure.

The project was designed as an educational tool combining graphic design, civic education and collective reflection. Through discussion, research and visual experimentation, students were encouraged to think critically about the meaning of secularism in contemporary society and its role within schools and public institutions.

A key aspect of the project was its connection to the Panthéon in Paris. Following the workshops, students participated in a visit to this emblematic monument. The Panthéon occupies a unique place in French history and collective memory, honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation.

For the students, the visit provided a concrete link between the concepts explored during the workshops and the historical figures celebrated within the monument. It offered an opportunity to connect civic values with real individuals whose actions helped shape modern France.

The visual identity developed for this project seeks to make complex ideas accessible through graphic design. By combining portraits, keywords and carefully structured compositions, the artwork transforms educational content into a visual narrative that can be understood by a wide audience.

This approach reflects a broader belief that graphic design can serve as a powerful educational medium. Images have the ability to communicate ideas quickly while encouraging curiosity and discussion. In this project, design becomes a bridge between knowledge, history and civic engagement.

The participation of the students was central to the creative process. Rather than receiving information passively, they actively contributed to the selection of references and the construction of meaning. This collaborative dimension reinforces the educational value of the project and gives the final artwork a collective identity.

Beyond the school environment, the project highlights the importance of cultural institutions and educational initiatives in fostering dialogue around citizenship and shared values. It demonstrates how artistic practices can support learning while encouraging reflection on contemporary social issues.

Ultimately, this project combines graphic design, education and civic awareness into a single visual experience. Through the voices and choices of the students, it offers a contemporary interpretation of secularism while emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage, historical memory and democratic values.

Graphic design about Secularism by Alex KANOS / Organised by College Jean Moulin d’Arnouville and the Panthéon / Location Ville de Paris