Books
A selection of art & design theory books, practical guides and coffee table tomes.
Behind the Zines: Self-Publishing Culture
Robert KlantenIntroduces a cutting-edge selection of international zines and examines their role as a catalyst in the evolution of media and graphic design today.
Bookbinding: The Complete Guide to Folding, Sewing & Binding
Franziska Morlok & Miriam WaszelewskiComprehensive reference guide exploring bookbinding techniques in start-to-finish detail, explaining all possible options in clear illustrations and easy-to-follow text.
Design as Art
Bruno MunariAn illustrated journey into the artistic possibilities of modern design. Munari insisted that design be beautiful, functional and accessible, and this enlightening and highly entertaining book sets out his ideas about visual, graphic and industrial design and the role it plays in the objects we use everyday.
Design for the Real World
Victor PapanekPapanek provides a blueprint for sensible, responsible design in this world which is deficient in resources and energy.
Home School
JAC&A DIY brand strategy workbook. Home School guides you through each step of the branding process.
Infinity Net: The Autobiography of Yayoi Kusama
Yayoi KusamaThe story of Kusama’s life and extraordinary career in her own words. A beautiful read from a maverick artist who channels her obsessive neuroses into an art that transcends cultural barriers.
It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want To Be
Paul ArdenA handbook of how to succeed in the world. Ad-man Paul Arden offers up his wisdom on issues as diverse as problem solving, responding to a brief, communicating, playing your cards right, making mistakes, and creativity - all endeavours that can be applied to aspects of modern life.
Know Your Onions: Graphic Design
Drew de SotoPractical knowledge for the working designer. A handy book to stash which gives readers the experience and ability that normally comes from years of on-the-job training.
Symbols, Signs and Signets
Ernst LehnerReproducing in historical sequence 1355 signs, seals, and symbols from the simplest drawings of heavenly bodies, through the intricate heraldic devices of the Middle Ages, to modern cattle brands and hobo sign language.
Making Books: A Guide to Creating Handcrafted Books
London Centre for Books ArtsAn easy to follow DIY manual for various bookbinding methods from the folk at London Centre for Book Arts︎︎︎
Now You See It & Other Essays on Design
Michael BierutEssays range across design history, practice, and process; urban design and architecture; design hoaxes; pop culture; and an inside look at Bierut’s experience creating the logo for Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign.
Run Studio Run
Eli AltmanThe book is a step-by-step guide that details how to manage and grow a small creative studio. It helps you look at your studio critically — as a business as opposed to an artistic endeavour. Good for freelancers and small studios alike.
The Politics of Design
Ruben PaterMany designs that appear in today's society will circulate and encounter audiences of many different cultures and languages. With communication comes responsibility; are designers aware of the meaning and impact of their work?
The Responsible Object: A History of Design Ideology for the Future
Marjanne Van Helvert (Editor)The intrinsic design ideologies of sustainability and social responsibility are often not new. This book presents a history of socially committed design strategies within the Western tradition, from William Morris to Victor Papanek, and from VKhUTEMAS to FabLab.
The Woman's Dictionary of Symbols & Sacred Objects
Barbara G. WalkerA guide to the history and mythology of female-related symbols. The book provides both visual and textual studies of sacred and esoteric symbols including magical, sexual, holy, philosophical, ritualistic, natural and supernatural ideas and objects.
Thoughts on Design
Paul RandOne of the seminal texts of graphic design. Writing at the height of his career, Rand articulates the pioneering vision that all design should seamlessly integrate form and function.
Ways of Seeing
John BergerBased on the BBC television series︎︎︎, John Berger's book is a unique look at the way we view art.
Whatever You Think, Think The Opposite
Paul ArdenTurning logic and common sense on its head. Implores you to be confident, to take bigger risks and enjoy your work more than you can imagine.
For a more general archive of good books, please visit Good Book Catalogue︎︎︎