10 Must Read Books for Graphic Designers
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1. Grid Systems in Graphic Design by Josef Müller-Brockmann
This book is suitable for those who work with automated text and image design. It shows examples of working correctly on a conceptual level. Exact directions for using all of the grid systems presented (8 to 32 grid fields) are given to the user. These can be used for the most varied of projects. The three-dimensional grid is treated as well. Put simply: a guidebook from the profession for the profession.
2. The Elements of Typographic Style by Robert Bringhurst
Renowned typographer and poet Robert Bringhurst brings clarity to the art of typography with this masterful style guide. Combining the practical, theoretical, and historical, this edition is completely updated, with a thorough revision and updating of the longest chapter, “Prowling the Specimen Books,” and many other small but important updates based on things that are continually changing in the field.
This book briefly and completely covers all relevant topics. There are examples of all key typefaces are provided, definitely and helpfully organized.
3. Design, Form, and Chaos by Paul Rand
To have the preeminent graphic designer in America — the leading proponent of the Modern — intelligently and forcefully speak out makes this a document for today and the ages. Rand’s book is a classic.
— Stephen Heller
4. Thinking with Type by Ellen Lupton
Thinking with Type is the definitive guide to using typography in visual communication, from the printed page to the computer screen.
5. Designing Brand Identity: An Essential Guide for the Whole Branding Team by Alina Wheeler
Alina Wheeler explains better than anyone else what identity design is and how it functions. There’s a reason this is the 5th edition of this classic.
— Paula Scher, Partner, Pentagram
6. How to be a Graphic Designer Without Losing Your Soul by Adrian Shaughnessy
Graphic designers constantly complain that there is no career manual to guide them through the profession. Design consultant and writer Adrian Shaughnessy draws on a wealth of experience to provide just such a handbook. Aimed at the independent-minded, it addresses the concerns of young designers who want to earn a living by doing expressive and meaningful work and avoid becoming a hired drone working on soulless projects.
7. 100 Ideas That Changed Graphic Design by Steven Heller
The 100 entries, arranged broadly in chronological order, range from technical (overprinting, rub-on designs, split fountain); to stylistic (swashes on caps, loud typography, and white space); to objects (dust jackets, design handbooks); and methods (paper cut-outs, pixelation)
8. Elements of Graphic Design by Alex White
The Elements Of Graphic Design is one of the most up-to-date and comprehensive design guides. This pioneering work provides students, designers and art directors — regardless of experience — with a unique approach to successful design.
9. Paul Rand: A Designer’s Art by Paul Rand
Paul Rand was one of the world’s leading graphic designers. Here he describes his work with the same precision, economy and passion that he displays in his graphic designs, seeking to help us to understand the nature of his relationships with his clients, his audience and his art.
10. A Smile in the Mind by Beryl McAlhone, David Staurt, Greg Quinton and Nick Asbury
First published in 1996, A Smile in the Mind rapidly became one of the most influential books in graphic design — a rich sourcebook of design ideas and an entertaining guide to the techniques behind witty thinking.
Thanks for reading!
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