Refuso Manifesto is a publication created as part of Yvan Martinez’s Graphic Design Seminar at the University of Arts London. The project prompt was to investigate the question “Is rebellion dead?” The Manifesto is a propaganda pamphlet that outlines the beliefs and tenets of Refuso, a fictional group whose goal is to constantly rebel against any rule, anytime and anywhere.

Research led to the conclusion that rebellion as a force will always exist, but each individual subversive movement is ultimately doomed to fall apart, replaced by others in an endless cycle of rebellion. Refuso highlights the futility of rebellious subcultures by creating an ideology that is self-defeating and self-contradictory.  

The publication’s design is inspired by propaganda pamphlets, conspiracy theory graphics, and arcane sociological diagrams. The A6 size allows for it to be carried in members’ pockets, cheaply copied, and easily distributed. All of these elements combine to create a reading experience that causes the reader to question the reality of the publication: is Refuso a real group? And should I join it?