This comprehensive illustrated history begins with the origins of the alphabet itself and carries the reader through the first handwritten books, the invention of printing in the Renaissance, the explosion of graphic styles (and printed media) in the 19th and 20th centuries, and the impact of digital technology on design today.Like E.H. Gombrich's magnificent Story of Art, The Story of Graphic Design is a compelling narrative that explores the evolution of styles under the pressure of social, cultural, and technological change, accompanied by a comprehensive selection of illustrations of key works in typography and design since the invention of writing. It covers a remarkable number of topics, from the art of the medieval manuscript to the birth of advertising to the workings of modern mass media. Unlike all other historians of design, Patrick Cramsie is able to bring a designer's eye to the analysis of visual communication.The Story of Graphic Design is an indispensible book for designers, historians, and students, and will find a wide readership among people who are interested in the visual arts or concerned about the future of the printed word.

This hardcover book measures 10 by 8 inches. Published June 1, 2010.

Brand: Abrams

Abrams

Abrams elevates the art of the art book to new heights, publishing books about photography, cooking, interior design, craft, fashion, sports, comics and pop culture, as well as children’s books and general interest subjects. Founded in 1949 by Harry N. Abrams, the publishing house focuses on high-quality, visually stunning art and illustrated books. Bestsellers include the wildly popular "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" series by Jeff Kinney, the award-winning cookbooks of Alton Brown, and the stunning photography of Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s "Earth from Above," as well as "The Art of Walt Disney," "Richard Avedon: Performance," "Time: Andy Goldsworthy," "African Ceremonies, "Slim Aarons: Once Upon a Time," "The Ultimate Picasso," "Worldchanging: A User's Guide for the 21st Century," "Graffiti World: Street Art from Five Continents," "Things I've Learned in My Life So Far," "Vanity Fair: The Portraits," "Twilight: Photographs" by Gregory Crewdson, "Kirby: King of Comics," "William Wegman Polaroids," "Tony Duquette," "Louis Vuitton: The Birth of Modern Luxury," "Landscape Design: A Cultural and Architectural History," "Golf Magazine: Private Lessons," and the best-selling "365" and "Discoveries" series. These elegantly curated art books make the perfect addition to any library or coffee table collection.