10 Graphic Design Books To Read, Business Leaders Share
IBISWorld reports that the global graphic design market is worth $43.40 billion in 2022, with consistent growth each year. This industry ranks 9th among all business activities in terms of market size. Companies of all sizes heavily rely on graphic designing for business and marketing.
Graphic design plays a crucial role in business. It helps in producing striking visuals and conveying powerful messages to target audiences. Whether creating flyers for your print marketing, images for your social media marketing, or branding elements for your business website, employ graphic designing.
Unfortunately, creating professional graphic designs for business is no easy feat. As a non-graphic designer, you must know at least the basics of graphic designing, even if you opt to hire an expert. But as a professional graphic designer, you must keep abreast of the latest designs, update your knowledge, and hone your skills.
So when it comes to producing graphic designs, reading is the first step to take. Consider investing in graphic design books that are readily available in the market. Take it from some of the business leaders who have shared their favorites.
That said, here are top graphic design books to read in 2022:
Best Graphic Design Books for 2022
Graphic designing is key to boosting marketing and achieving business success. Findstack reports that 68% of digital marketers create visuals for content creation, while 80% leverage graphic design for social media marketing.
According to Red Website Design, about 60.8% of marketers claim visuals help market a brand successfully. That is why every business should invest in professional graphic design. The key here is to start by reading graphic design books.
Unfortunately, several books are readily available in the market. It can be overwhelming to find the best ones. Fret not, as we’ve rounded up a few recommendations. That said, here are the top graphic design books for 2022 shared by some business leaders.
1. The Non-Designer’s Design Book, by Robin Williams
Recommended by Jerry Han, CMO at PrizeRebel
When it comes to graphic designing, start with the basics. As the name implies, this book is for non-designers, specifically beginners and intermediate-level designers. It covers fundamental design principles, such as design types, colors, typefaces, layouts, and many more. Fret not, as it comes with steps and examples perfect for novice graphic designers.
2. Grid Systems in Graphic Design, by Josef Müller-Brockman
Unlike the first one, this book for graphic designing is more advanced. As the title suggests, it entails developing visual communication designed for graphic designers, typographers, and three-dimensional designers. It aims to help them organize content details with logic, structure, and balance. Ultimately, it focuses on the grid system presented through examples at a conceptual level.
3. Creative Code: Aesthetics + Computation, by John Maeda
This advanced masterpiece revolves around digital designs. It covers various design topics, from data visualization to digital typography to interactive design. This book asks readers to consider the digital realm not just as a tool but as a medium for modern design. Take it from the author, John Maeda, who worked on this research with his students for more than seven years.
4. Logo Modernism (Design), by Jens Müller & Julius Wiedemann
Recommended by Michael Nemeroff, CEO & Co-Founder of Rush Order Tees
When we talk about graphic design, what comes to mind? It immediately conjures images of logos. This book contains a vast collection of about 6,000 logos from 1940 to 1980, covering various industries, from retail to media to airlines. It seeks to explore the evolving modernism in graphic design through a wide array of logos designed through time.
5. Creative Confidence, by Tom & David Kelley
This book seeks to unleash creativity within all of us. As everyone would agree, creativity is the foundation of producing graphic designs. The book covers design principles and strategies to help you realize your creative potential and transcend many design possibilities. What’s great about this book is that it presents entertaining and inspiring stories from the author’s work at IDEO.
6. Flow, by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
The author believes our state of consciousness (flow) determines our experiences and satisfaction in life. This book focuses on creating meaning, boosting creativity, increasing performance, and achieving happiness during this flow. This book highlights how we make sense of our reality. It includes research on personal psychology, consciousness, and spirituality. What a profound way to explain and explore designs in real life!
7. Printed Matter, by Karel Martens
Recommended by James Crawford, Co-Founder of DealDrop
As the title suggests, this book focuses on designing print materials. On a specific note, it covers editorial designs and book structures. This book consists of three parts: Commercial Graphic Design, Typefaces Cut in Wood and Linoleum, and Books. Fret not, as the author presented theoretical concepts explained through practical examples. Hence, it’s easy to read and follow.
8. Letter and Image, by Robert Massin
This book examines the importance of typography, covering three primary themes: typography as a symbol, literary form, and fine art element. This book shows the evolution of lettering from prehistoric times to the 1960s. It explores how letters have become means of communication to how they have been experimented with by artists and designers. The author has had an extensive review for more than 15 years. What a good read, indeed!
9. Steal Like an Artist, by Austin Kleon
Have you asked yourself what things you should know about creativity? This book covers ten things nobody told you about being creative. Yes, it covers ten principles allowing you to unravel your artistry and creativity in this digital era. It’s an inspiring guide that tells you to embrace influence, learn from others, and discover your creative path. That’s how you steal like an artist!
10. How to Be a Graphic Designer without Losing Your Soul, by Adrian Shaughnessy
This book has become a trusted resource for graphic designers across the globe. However, it doesn’t only offer practical graphic designing tips. It also incorporates philosophical views on pursuing this much-coveted career. Hence, the title “without losing your soul.” The new expanded version of this book highlights updated ideas on the creative process, professional careers, and even global trends. Grab this, and it will be your go-to graphic design book!
Unleash Your Creativity through Graphic Designs for Your Business
So there you have it! We’ve compiled nine graphic design books to read this year, suggested by three business leaders. Whether you’re a professional graphic designer or an entrepreneur leveraging graphic designing, consider those books recommended above.
Know that graphic design trends are ever-changing. Also, keep in mind that the business landscape is ever-evolving. For this reason, continue to enhance your knowledge and hone your skills in graphic design. However, understand that it all boils down to the core foundation of designing — creativity.
With these in mind, you’ll produce design copies showing striking visuals and conveying powerful messages. Through remarkable graphic designs, you’ll kick your business up a notch!
