Graphic Design Books

I have seen many books explaining graphic design principles, but this one is the first to show their application in real life advertisement projects. Every unit is explained with the help of real life ads, good and bad, making it really easy to see the difference. The book is packed with examples, at least 10 - 15 images on each spread, each one accompanied by comments related to the topic discussed.

The author goes into detail of each technique saying where it can be applied with what effect.

I really enjoyed reading this book and it became not only a source of inspiration but a great reference material I keep on my desk.

In any field there are pretenders, there are competent performers, and there are masters. In the field of typography and advertising design, Alex White is a master. And he has written a masterful book, suitably titled "Advertising Design and Typography." Every page is packed with practical, clear, impactfully illustrated information that demands to be read, re-read, and, most important, put into use. This quote from Arthur Conan Doyle (p. 75) says it best: "Talent instantly recognizes genius." Anyone with talent in design will recognize Alex White for what he is, and for what he has produced in this book: Genius.

if you are a serious designer, you need something for reference, this is the book you're looking for. hundreds of picture, unique idea about design, and stong typographic backgroud, this book is really nice and carefully done.

This book gives the reader a peak into real-world projects and reveals work flow and creative process. It's a lot of fun too. It should be called After Effects @ PLAY.

So easy to understand it should be called "After Effects @ Play" but seriously it's got info from 11 pro's in the Motion Graphics Industry and if you aren't a pro, then this book will help all you "youtubers" out there to post some pretty amazing stuff.
I just recently purchased this book and read it all and gave some of the projects a whirl. I'm a big user and fan of After Effects so I say this book deserves a 5 Star.

Interesting projects and great authors. This book is actually a collection of 12 authors who each wrote a chapter. The projects are varied and each of the authors has a different style and experience to bring to the tutorials. Even though the authors are different, the editing and design of the book allows the book to have a cohesive feel.

Me gustaría saber dónde puedo conseguir libros del autor, tales como "The Flights of Icarus" o "Views". Gracias, y espero que se reimpriman pronto. Un saludo

This valuable art and reference work contains a lengthy introduction by Dominy Hamilton exploring the history of vinyl record covers up to 1977 plus an appendix on how the job is done, from the design phase to the printing. It also includes short biographies on Storm Thorgerson, James Slattery, Roger Dean, Diana Korchien, Dominy Hamilton and Dave Howells.

The full colour reproductions of the record sleeves are divided into the following sections: 1. Jazz, 2. Psychedelia, 3. Recent Years (1967 - 1977), 4. Influence and Coincidence, 5. Miscellany - a section that includes examples of various packaging strategies, 6. Portfolios, which features the work of eight sleeve designers in the form of small individual portfolios and include Rick Griffin, John Kosh, John van Hamersveld, Pacific Eye and Ear, Rod Dyer, Hipgnosis, Roger Dean and John Pasche, and 7. Devices and Disguises, that deals with ingeneous alternatives from 1970 onwards and includes sleeves with extra flaps, covers imitating old singles, concert tickets, sleeves in the form of newspapers and covers with movable parts.

The index at the front of the book lists all the sleeve art inside, from Abba and Alice Cooper through Kansas and Three Dog Night to Neil Young, Frank Zappa and Zzebra. Some sleeves have a whole page for themselves, like Zappa's humorous Weasels Ripped My Flesh and Boz Scagg's Silk Degrees. My favorites, to list just a few, include Cheap Thrills by Big Brother And The Holding Company, Abraxas by Santana, Bowie's Pinups, Bowie's Aladdin Sane, Patti Smith's Horses, Lou Reed's Rock 'n Roll Animal, Captain Beefheart's Trout Mask Replica and Joni Mitchell's Blue.

This Album Cover Album is a fascinating look at art in music up to 1977, and also a valuable research and history guide.

This book is a must. If you only like music or if you love the covers more than the music inside or if you are learning to design covers...Well, this book has it all. The covers are show by elements in commom, so you can judge by yourself about the criativity of the designers. Roger Deam is a famous artist well know by his covers and stages for the rock group Yes. But this does not interfere with the overall result. The guys did a fantastic job compiling all the covers in this book. There are rock covers, jazz covers, latim, dance, disco, and so on. All possible covers are there. Don't hesitate. Buy it now!

Alex Sab

The book represents a very decent approach for a transition from the sequential algorithms design ( RAM model ) to parallel algorithms for different models of parallel machines( not only SMP for which most of the software engineers get accustomed ).

The book is an introduction for a person with a good background in a sequential algorithms design. The proof of the Master Theorem is somehow overcomplicated - it would have been better if there had been a sketch of the proof before the authors delve into the mathematically rigorous part. Before reading the proof in this book I recommend to read a proof of a simplified version of the Master Theorem as given in "Algorithms" by Dasgupta, Papadimitriou and Vazirani - it takes less than a page compared with 11 pages for the complete case in this book.

I first came across the first edition's translation on Russian nearly 2 years ago ( the author's site says it was translated in 2007, but actually it was in the first quarter of 2006 ), then I bought the original 2nd edition - the book worth it.

P.S. I've found nothing about Python language, as one of the review says, the authors use easily understandable pseudo-language. The book is not a cook book with code - this is virtually impossible for such a type of book as an algorithm realization heavily depends on a parallel machine architecture.

Have you been trying to find a way of to integrate the presentation of sequential and parallel algorithms? If you are, this book is for you! Authors Russ Miller and Laurence Boxer, have done an outstanding job of writing a great book on how to employ a philosophy of presenting a paradigm, such as divide and conquer, and then discussing implementation issues for both sequential and parallel models.

Miller and Laurence Boxer begin by introducing the concept of asymptotic analysis.
Next, the authors explain the Python programming language to write scripts. Then, they focus on fundamentals of induction and recursion. The authors continue by presenting the Master Method, a very useful cookbook-type of system for evaluating recurrence equations that are common in an algorithms-based setting. In addition, the authors next present an overview of combinational circuits and sorting networks. They also introduce fundamental models of computation, including the RAM and a variety of parallel models of computation. Next, the authors focus on the important problem of matrix multiplication, which is considered for a variety of models of computation. Then, they introduce the parallel prefix operation. The authors continue by introducing pointer jumping techniques and show how some list-based algorithms can be efficiently implemented in parallel. In addition, the authors next present the powerful divide and conquer paradigm. They also focus on two important application areas, namely, Computational Geometry and Image Processing. Next, the authors focus on fundamental graph theoretic problems. Finally, they cover sequential algorithms for polynomial evaluation and approximation of definite integrals.

Due to the fact that authors of this excellent book present design and analysis of paradigms for sequential and parallel models, the reader will notice that the number of paradigms that can be treated is limited. But, that limitation is of no consequence when compared to a traditional sequential algorithms text.

I'm coauthor, so I'm not unbiased. Having said that....

The dominant textbook in the field of computer algorithms is Introduction to Algorithms, by Cormen et al. This is a very fine book. However, we have written Algorithms Sequential and Parallel in a very different style, which we feel will give significant advantages to many who use our book. Points of difference between these texts include the following:

1. Algorithms Sequential and Parallel has a unified approach to the presentation of sequential and parallel algorithms. Students of 21st Century computing will need to learn parallel algorithms, which are often closely related to their sequential analogs. Ours is the first algorithms text to integrate presentation of sequential and parallel algorithms so that readers can understand their relationships. This integrated treatment also frees the instructor from the common practice of spending most of an algorithms course on the study of sequential algorithms, with the last 2 or 3 weeks devoted to parallel algorithms - a practice that may mislead students into thinking that parallel computing is still the immature specialization of researchers, rather than a core technology for the 21st Century.

2. Algorithms Sequential and Parallel does not compete with Cormen et al. in the scope of topics covered. The Cormen et al. text, whose 2nd edition is well over 1100 pages, seems designed for at least a year sequence in the study of algorithms. By contrast, Algorithms Sequential and Parallel, 2nd edition, is under 400 pages. This makes it suitable for a one-semester study of algorithms, appropriate for many undergraduate and first- or second-year graduate programs; also, it makes Algorithms Sequential and Parallel significantly less costly.

Algorithms Sequential and Parallel discusses mathematical tools used in the analysis of algorithms, a variety of sequential and parallel models of computation (including the RAM, PRAM, linear array, mesh, hypercube, pyramid, mesh-of-trees, and coarse-grained models), fundamental algorithms (including broadcast, semigroup computations, parallel prefix, sorting, searching) and their sequential and parallel implementations, paradigms such as recursive divide-and-conquer, and algorithms for a variety of applications areas (matrix operations and a variety of other numerical problems, computational geometry, image processing, graph problems, etc). Each chapter concludes with exercises at varying levels of difficulty.

Note that a disinterested reviewer gave the first edition of Algorithms Sequential and Parallel a rating of 5 stars (out of 5) in SIGACT News 34 #2, June, 2003, pp. 3-5.

American Fancy: Exuberance In The Arts 1790-1840 is a stunning coffee table book focusing upon all forms of physical art - from paintings to furnishings to clocks, glass panels, coffeepots, and much more that could be found American households circa the early 1800's. The full color photographs display a truly remarkable assortment of classic antiques, and the text brings the reader on an in-depth tour of not only the works themselves, but the lives and sweeping historical changes surrounding the men and and women who cherished them. American Fancy is a veritable treasury of vintage creations, many of which were pragmatic as surely as they were beautiful.

Disclaimer: I was a lender to the exhibition and objects from my collection are illustrated in this extraordinary book, more than a catalogue of the exhibition. I heard the author, Sumpter Priddy, lecture on his concept of Fancy well over ten years ago and it resonated within me for years afterward. To finally have the expression of that concept so brilliantly realized must be both thrilling and empty-feeling for him. But those who have the book are the beneficiaries of his insight. The book is beautifully illustrated with top-level color photography by Gavin Ashworth of objects from museums and private collections that flesh out Priddy's vision of what constituted Fancy in the 1790-1840 period. The text is accessible and comprehensive while well-presented graphically. My only quibble is that the book's cover doesn't begin to suggest the riches within. In all, an exceptional effort at an extremely attractive price, thanks to the Chipstone Foundation's involvement.

From the two color book ribbons sewn into the binding to the heavy duty paper and bright, clear illustrations, this book is almost certainly the best produced new book I have ever seen. I resisted buying it for some months because of the price, but I was wrong to delay. The Chipstone Foundation and the Milwaukee Art Museum, and especially the designer, Wynne Patterson, are to be highly commended for producing a book of the highest quality. That is no small achievement in these pinch-penny days.

Long lost is the fine art of hand-binding books in leather and half-leather, but this book comes as close to the sensual delights of a handmade book of the 18th century as any I have ever seen.

Some of this praise must, of course, be reserved for the author. Some of the sensual delights of this book arise from the integration of black and white advertisements from historical sources, color pictures of painted furniture, close-up images of painted surfaces and ancillary images such as pictures of mocha ware, doll houses, quilts and folk portraits. The conscious effort to vary our range of focus adds a whole new dimension to the experience of reading the book.

I think that Priddy has an esoteric argument to make in his text, and I'm not sure he entirely makes his case. Sometimes, the words fight against the images, but the book is so beguilingly beautiful that the reader is ultimately won over by the sheer fancy imbedded in the effort.

Most of the time, we buy a book for its subject matter and treatment. Here there we have an additional reason. American Fancy is simply one of the finest books made in modern times. It is pure a delight.

I just bought this book a year ago. first time i saw this book at the bookshop, the first impression is the packaging/ cover of this book. its so thick and heavy, but the content...WOW! what can i say, the best reference for illustrator / graphic designer. many techniques have been used to make great illustration. From science fiction, cyber-art, human form, fantasy, comic and etc. It costs me a lot to pay this book, cause i'm in Australia, but it's worth to buy. That's why i bought american showcase 22 and 23. And this time from Amazon, cause Amazon has give me better deal! :-) Now i'm waiting for American Showcase 24!

American Showcase is the best reference to know what's new in Illustration tendency.

...a must have for any artist that is constantly learning from others. Every one of these books that I've seen has been great. As most artwork goes, every one is very different. I first found out about them through my father who purchased #17 in New Orleans, where I used to live. Since then we both have been hooked. I really suggest any of the American Showcase books if you can find the spare cash. P.S. Just to let you know, this book really contains no data on "how to". It is simply this, a HUGE collection of famous and not so famous graphic designer's work, who all deserve recognition if only we had that much space in our brains.

Just came across this big/little gem recently.Though this book was published in 1994,it is as good as any I've seen.Not a lot of pictures,actually 14 in all, they are excellent and a good variety.One thing that makes them so good is their size,14 x 16 in.This large size results in the pictures having the same effect that you get from poster sized images.Once you've mastered "seeing" these;give a Jig-Saw puzzle of one of these images a try.Good Luck!!!

I am currently looking for a software programme that will allow our company to produce images similar to those shown in the book. These images are for a shipbuilding company. If anyone out there can help and offer a site to have a look at, I would be most grateful.

Buy it if you want to see the most amazement images in your life. It has minimum text. But consists of 14 very big and high resolutin 3D images. Very colorful. But you have to have much time to learn to see it.

Mike is an artist, photographer and art director.

He can see great talent and know's how to put it to work. He has launched many careers in the process and has kept several great artists alive, by throwing them work, over the years.

Mike has worked with "The Best" in his 50 years of experiencs and has helped shape the present culture by utilizing his, and other's, talents.

This is a great collection of his work, presented with tongue in cheek humor. Totally entertaining and enlightening. Lots of smirks and laughs too. And... some cheesecake as well!

Mike Salisbury has long been one of my heroes, both for his innovative design work and strong knowledge of marketing. This book provides great insight into how Mike approaches a project and why he brings so much more than design talent. And the vivid examples from his extensive portfolio are inspirational, to say the least.

lotsa big bright pictures! An autobiographical account of this mike salisbury guy, a celebrity art director/graphic design type who came up with some of the most unforgetable commercial graphics and campaigns of the last 30 years (Joe Camel, Rolling Stone magazine, Jurassic Park, and even Micheal Jackson!). The guy's kinda pompous, but I guess that's the gig in the promotion and marketing game. Worth reading!

Frederick Sommer is one of the most fascinating artists of the 20th century, yet had been concealed in relative obscurity until the publishing of this fantastic monograph. We are fortunate to have the ability to purchase such a gorgeously designed, informative, and comprehensive book about Frederick Sommer. In this book you will see photographs that are light years ahead of their time: experimental, edgy, and hauntingly beautiful. There are illustrated avant garde Musical Scores that rival composers like Cage and Zorn. Also, you will bear witness to Sommer's organic, intricate collage work that re-examines physiology and internal organs. Every page is stunning! The quality of the paper is like velvet and the text at the beginning gives a sufficient overview of Sommer's career. If you are a photography enthusiast or a lover of art in all its forms, I invite you to discover a hidden gem in the history of art.

It took one hundred years, but now we finally have a volume that does justice to the greatness of Mr. Sommer. An understanding of Frederick Sommer is essential to any informed study of the medium of photography. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone with such inclinations as well as to those already familiar with the photographer. No more must we comb the racks of used books in search of one of his monographs or museum catalogues (sadly perhaps). This volume encapsulates the life and work of a unique artist, highlighting the depth of his creativity and wide-ranging vision. Bravo!

If you want to understand the influences on a complex artist, this book will do it. I confess Frederick Sommer is my uncle. I had been exposed to him for 60 years and have struggled to understand him and his work, despite numerous interactions with him. Keith Davis's essay showed me what resources influenced Fred and how Fred interpreted those influences. Keith also reminded me of Fred's observation that a person could understand things according to what that person brought to the table. So, I now admire Fred for the depth of his philosophical education, and feel a lot less ignorant personally about his art and philosophy.
This book contains Davis's essay, many images of Fred's diverse approaches to art, and an excellent chronology of a man who, through the support of his wife, was able to live a life dedicated to art.

How interesting can old American cigar labels be? Enough to fill up a full color 250 page coffee table book, at least.

The book is more than just a compendium of old labels from deceased brands, but a history lesson, a seminar in the materials and processes used in generating the labels, and a discussion of the various themes explored in the artwork, i.e. patriotism, women, theater, sports and gambling, cowboys & indians, you name it. Finally, there is some very informative stuff on collecting cigar art, searching for historic labels and estimating value. The book is the most complete work on the subject of this type of collectable Americana, and as such is recommended to all interested in the field.

Any true collector will appreciate Davidson's initial edition, and followup version, "Smoker's Art". For those of us who pore over piles of stuff seaching for a winner, be it cigar labels or anything else, this book is a treasure trove of high quality art.

As a graphic designer this book has served me well on many projects. It is detailed with a large display of labels that are well reproduced for the viewer. The catagories add a variety subjects to the art of labels which is why many of us feel this book is like a bible. It is the most complete book so far on this subject.