Graphic Design as a Means of Interaction and Communication
Beyond mere aesthetics, graphic design is a means of interaction and communication with the outside world. This idea is masterfully illustrated in “Graphic Design Play Book: An Exploration of Visual Thinking” by Aurélien Farina and Sophie Cure. This review examines the book’s use of interactive exercises to teach readers the principles of graphic design, highlighting its value as a resource for both beginners and aficionados.
Identifying and Improving Visual Sensitivity
The Graphic Design Playbook begins with an intriguing idea: learn the ins and outs of graphic design and sharpen your visual sense. To make this tour both fun and educational, the authors provide a series of puzzles and exercises. This book is a great starting point for anyone interested in learning how various components such as typography, signage, and branding work. The book’s light-hearted approach, which includes games such as matching, spot-the-difference, and drawing exercises, ensures that readers are engaged learners rather than passive consumers of knowledge.
Interacting with Graphic Art Through Interactive Education
The book uses an interactive style to teach readers basic principles in an effort to demystify graphic design. Dot-to-dot games and hands-on exercises with stickers, die-cut templates, and colored paper encourage readers to interact with the concepts covered in depth. Solution sheets and a glossary complement this hands-on approach and serve to reinforce the knowledge gained through active participation. Images by renowned designers such as Otl Aicher and Gerd Arntz not only enhance the visual experience, but also connect readers to historical and contemporary examples of graphic design excellence.
Examining the Basic Design Components
The four primary components of the Graphic Design Playbook are logically organized into typography, posters, signage, and identity. Each section serves as a gateway to a deeper understanding and appreciation of these essential elements of graphic design. The book encourages readers to “dive in, explore, and let their hands and eyes lead them on a journey of discovery. This exploration emphasizes action as well as observation, which is a powerful method for understanding and remembering the nuances of design.
Authors’ Perspectives and Positive Reviews
Every page of this book is infused with the knowledge and love of graphic design of its authors, Aurélien Farina and Sophie Cure. The clear and accessible way in which they convey complex concepts is a testament to their expertise in editorial and print design, visual identities, and educational materials. The book has been described as “a beautiful, slick, and very enjoyable publication” in reviews from prestigious magazines such as Creative Boom and Eye. These reviews also highlight the book’s function as “a fun and interactive way for young visual thinkers to engage with the world of graphic design.
About the Authors
Aurélien Farina is a French-Swiss graphic designer based in Paris. In 2011, he founded Paper Studio, a print and editorial design studio. Sophie Cure is a graphic designer based in Paris. She has been running her own studio since 2012, specializing in editorial design, educational materials and visual identities.
Summary
More than just a book, Graphic Design Playbook: An Exploration of Visual Thinking is an invitation to engage with the world in a more meaningful and visually stimulating way. This book offers a unique and fun way to learn about and appreciate the field of graphic design, regardless of age or experience level. Its unique blend of instructional content, interactive exercises, and beautiful design makes it an essential resource for anyone who wants to understand the power of visual communication.
Where to Purchase?
Aurélien Farina & Sophie Cure’s 80-page paperback, Graphic Design Play Book: An Exploration of Visual Thinking, was published by Laurence King Publishing on June 25, 2019. The book takes the reader on a vivid mental and visual journey. It covers the key elements of graphic design such as logos, typography, websites, posters, web and creative design. Here are the easiest ways to get your hands on this instructive guide if you’d like to purchase it:
- Purchase a copy of the Graphic Design Playbook from Amazon. Explore the field of graphic design and learn about a variety of visual techniques and design principles.
- Discover Graphic Design Play Book on AbeBooks and learn how the fundamentals of graphic design influence creativity in a variety of artistic mediums.
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