Meggs: Making Graphic Design History
Category: Books,Arts & Photography,Graphic Design
Meggs: Making Graphic Design History Details
Review "A retrospective chronicling the work and writing of noted design historian and educator Philip B. Meggs." (How Magazine, April 2008) This book memorializes the work of Philip Meggs (1942-2002), who helped to identify graphic design as a profession through his teaching at Virginia Commonwealth University, his writing and his work as a designer. His enduring A History of Graphic Design is widely known as the standard and, for decades, the only comprehensive history of graphic design. Meggs comprises pieces of his own work, including reprinted journal articles, lecture notes, and photographic reproductions of his sketchbooks, paintings, and photographs. The collection of writing here presents a good picture of Meggs's analysis of design history and visions for the future; for example, notes on lecture about Marshall McLuhan discuss the role of the mass media expanding the scope of visual communication. Furthermore, in a 1989 article from Print, Meggs predicts the role of desktop publishing technology as a tool for the mass production of bad design. Essays by several of Megg’s colleagues and family members emphasize his dedication to his work and also his courage when faced with leukemia. Recommended for academic libraries that support design curricula.—Eric Linderman, Euclid P.L., OH (Library Journal, January 2008) "This book is our unanimous decision for BOOK OF THE YEAR in the Graphic Design field because it fills two important functions for anyone in visual communications. First it is a warmly written and thoroughly enjoyable read…..secondly this book gives the visual communicator a look into the inner workings of what it takes to be a great designer." (Design-bookshelf.com; 1/7/02) "Graphic Historian and educator Phillip Meggs is well known in design circles for his notable work, A History of Graphic Design. Now a new book boasting Meggs' name is available…..includes a selections of his articles, transcripts from lectures and excerpts from his own books." (Dynamic Graphics; Dec/Jan 08) "Reading this volume, it's easy to see the impact Meggs had as a design historian, author and educator. And just as surely as readers will appreciate his contributions for years to come, to some extent they too will feel the loss of one of design's most innovative minds." (Step In Design, Nov/Dec 2007) "In 1983 Philip Baxter Meggs published A History of Graphic Design, the first real history of the field and still required reading in many graphic-design curricula…..this book is a loving tribute to his legacy as an educator, scholar, writer, and designer." (Metropolis Magazine; 12/07) "...any designer who cares deeply about graphic design ought to have this book on their shelves." (Designorati.com; 10/07) Read more
Reviews
I had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to go through the Communication Arts & Design program at VCU with Phil as illustration instructor, and student advisor.This book, about the life and times of Phil Meggs is essential reading for all graphic designers and artists whether you knew Phil or not. It follows a time line up to his death, showing sketch books, projects and designs by Phil, giving a glimpse of this truly gifted designer -- while providing any creative visual communicator a recipe for gathering, digesting and interpreting visuals -- a creative shot in the arm to say the least.The rememberances of those last months, written by Libby Meggs (Phil's wife) noted illustrator in her own right, brought tears to my eyes.Bottom line: the graphic designer, illustrator or visual communicator now has a detailed map on how to get where they want to go -- creatively. And for me, when faced with difficult design projects, I finally have the answer to the question: "What would Phil Meggs do"This book is in the number ONE spot for nomination for "BOOK OF THE YEAR" at [...] and DTG Magazine. And that recommendation says it all.Just buy it.