In 2000 graphic designer John Bielenberg saw Sambo Mockbee speak about the Rural Studio and thought, “why isn’t there anything like this for graphic design.” In 2001 he founded Project M, The Bielenberg Institute at the Edge of the Earth in Belfast Maine. Projects M’s purpose is to “inspire young graphic designers, writers, photographers and filmmakers by proving that their work can have a positive and significant impact on the world.”

In October of last year I had the privilege of meeting John and giving a presentation with him about Project M and the Rural Studio at the American Institute of Graphic Arts Conference in Boston. Project M applications for this year can be found at bielenberg.com.