“Graphic Design: Challenging the Perception”, the 5th International Conference on Graphic Design & Visual Communication, Graphic Stories, was held with great success in Nicosia on 15-17 March 2019. Design is a universal language that draws its strength from the diversity and unique perspectives of its creators, transcending boundaries, cultures, and ideologies. It has the power to shape not only the environment but also society and individual perception. Graphic design, in particular, can influence and challenge how people see and understand the world. Through creativity and perception, designers have the responsibility to reshape common views which inspired the theme of the conference and encouraged participants to explore how design can shift perceptions and provoke thought.

The Conference included ten [10] lectures, four [4] creative workshops, a film screening, the unveiling of the Graphic Stories Book, and an International Poster Exhibition accompanied by an award ceremony of the 3rd International Poster Contest by Graphic Stories. The exhibition featured designers from Cyprus and abroad with an award ceremony of the poster winners and a display of the fifty [50] distinguished poster participations.