23 Must-Read Graphic Design & Artistic Inspiration Books for Creatives
Spark creativity and explore art and design through this curated collection of books, full of indispensable instruction, guidance, and inspiration. Whether your a freelance artist looking for actionable advice about making a living from your creative work or a typophile who’s fascinated by the ins-and-outs of compositions and typography showcased by top design houses and ad firms — this collection of must-read books is for you. No experience needed, just a curious mind and passion to develop your skills and grow as a creative.
23 Must-Read Books for Creatives
1. “Grid Systems: Principles of Organizing Type” by Kimberly Elam
- Explores the principles of organizing type within the grid system with helpful insights on how to effectively structure and organize typography within a creative work.
2. “Extra Bold” by Ellen Lupton, Jennifer Tobias, Josh A. Halstead, Kaleena Sales, Leslie Xia, and Valentina Vergara
- A comprehensive examination of the important role of typography and layout in graphic design.
3. “How to Be a Rule-Breaking Letterer” by Martina Flor
- Provides guidance on unconventional and innovative approaches and techniques that break traditional rules in lettering.
4. “Graphic Design Theory: Readings from the Field” by Helen Armstrong
- Features a collection of readings, texts, and theoretical evaluations of the multiple aspects of graphic design
5. “Time to Draw Deck” by Sarah Walsh
- A collection of drawing prompts and tools to inspire creativity and expression.
6. “Just Enough Design” by Don Norman
- A fundamental guide to essential aspects and principles of design.
7. “Baseline Shift” by Julie Anixter
- Uncovered the significance of baseline shift in graphic design and aesthetics.
8. “Thoughts on Design” by Paul Rand
- Presents the thoughts and insights of renowned designer, Paul Rand — full of valuable design principles and aesthetics with though-proviking reflections.
9. “How to Be a Graphic Designer Without Losing Your Soul” by Adrian Shaughnessy
- Provides advice and guidance for aspiring graphic designers on maintaining authenticity in their work with emphasis on balancing creativity and commercial aspects in graphic design.
10. “The Business of Design” by Keith Granet
- Provides a practical advice, resources, and tested approaches to surviving and thriving in the business of design.
11. “Pink Flamingos and Yellow Pages: The Impact of Color on Marketing” by Judy Scott-Kemmis
- Evaluates the influence of color in marketing and its impact on consumer behavior with interesting examples of the psychological effects of color in marketing strategies.
12. “Making the Movement: A Practical Guide to Graphic Design Activism” by Bonnie Siegler
- Provides a practical guide for graphic designers engaging in activism through design with insights and strategies for using design as a tool for social change.
13. “The Senses: Design Beyond Vision” by Ellen Lupton and Andrea Lipps
- Explores design beyond the visual aspects, focusing on the role of other senses in design its impact on user experience.
14. “Graphic Design Rules: 365 Essential Design Dos and Don’ts” by Peter Dawson, John Foster, and Tony Seddon
- Presents essential design dos and don’ts for graphic designers forming a set of practical guidelines and tips for effective graphic design.
15. “Never Use Futura” by Douglas Thomas
- Explores the use of the Futura typeface in design and its impact wuth clever considerations for the use of the Futura typeface in design projects.
16. “Printmaking Bible, Revised Edition” by Ann d’Arcy Hughes and Hebe Vernon-Morris
- Provides a comprehensive guide to printmaking techniques and principles includes practical insights and techniques for printmaking in graphic design.
17. “Creative Business Handbook” by Lisa Congdon
- Explores the intersection of creativity and business in the design industry offering valuable tips to manage the business aspects of a creative career.
18. “The Rules We Break” by Steven Heller and Gail Anderson
- Explores the concept of breaking traditional design rules and conventions through examples of innovative approaches to design.
19. “New Rules Next Week: A Guide to Future-Proofing Your Design Work” by Stefan Sagmeister
- Provides a guide to adapting design work to future trends and changes. Featured helpful guidance on future-proofing design projects and creative strategies.
20. “How Design Makes Us Think: And Feel and Do Things” by Sean Adams
- Explores the psychological and behavioral impact of design on individuals with rich insights into the cognitive and emotional effects of design.
21. “The Art of Ruth Carter: Costume Design for Film and Television” by Ruth Carter
- Showcases the art of costume design by Ruth Carter in film and television. Explored the creative process and artistry of costume design.
22. “Black, Brown + Latinx Design Educators: Conversations on Design and Race” by Kelly Walters
- Features conversations on design and race with Black, Brown, and Latinx design educators. Provides insights into the intersection of diversity and design education.
23. “Type on Screen: A Critical Guide for Designers, Writers, Developers, and Students” by Ellen Lupton
- Offers a critical guide for understanding type in digital design contexts. Provides insights and guidance for effectively using type in digital design.
Growing as a creative requires more than just creating art and finding inspiration. Hope you find the time to embrace the enriching words of wisdom and foundational knowledge these top graphic design books have to offer artists of all skill levels. Happy Creating!
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Additional Notes
ABOUT THIS ARTICLE: This post was originally published in the #MadeByMELO Creative News & How-tos Blog by MELOGRAPHICS. CLICK HERE to read the original article, get a secret code to unlock bonus entries in the contest and preview the books.
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