Paul Rand

By Steven Heller

Book Overview

Paul Rand (1914-96) was a pioneering figure in American graphic design. Adopting what he called a 'problem-solving' approach, he drew on the ideas of European avant-garde art movements such as Cubism, Constructivism and De Stijl, and synthesized them to produce his own distinctive graphic language. As an art director, teacher, writer and design consultant to major companies including IBM, Oliveti and Ford, he was a major force and influence in the field of graphics and visual communication and enjoyed a committed following. Rand's career spanned almost seven decades and numerous chapters of design history.

Rand's own books are solidly thematic, whereas this definitive collection of his key published and proposed works is medium-driven. It explores the full range of his advertising, publishing and corporate identity work. The distinguished Swiss graphic designer Armin Hofmann, who taught with Rand at Yale University, contributes a foreword; George Lois, one of the most eminent figures in advertising and a follower of Rand, writes an inspiring introduction; and Jessica Helfand, one of Rand's former Yale students and a highly respected design writer, has captured his educational achievements in a lively concluding essay.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0714839949
• ISBN13: 9780714839943
• Release Date: August 2000
• Publisher: Phaidon Press
• Length: 255 Pages
• Weight: 3.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 9.7" x 11.3"
• Age Range: 13 to 22 years
• Grade Range: Grade 8 to Postsecondary

Customer Reviews

The Late Great Paul Rand

If you know anything about design, the words Paul Rand retain some meaning for you. It may be vague, perhaps one of your professors recommended you look him up, maybe one of your design icons listed him as an influence. Or quite likely you have seen some of his work, and never knew the man behind such world famous, global dominating logos. This has to be the most in depth Paul Rand book I have read, and I have borrowed many from various libraries. Which inclines me to say that if the history of design has ever intrigued you or you just like Mr.Rands work, then this is probably the best choice for you. Not only does it have a ton of images but it's probably the best bang for you buck as far as Rand books go.

Beautiful Paul Rand

A gorgeous and thorough documentation -- both written and visual -- of Paul Rand.

Great book!

If you are looking for a Paul Rand book with great quality pictures and lots of information, this is the book for you. A wonderful reference book but also just a great book to look through. I was very happy with my purchase

Excellent

I just received my book today and have not been able to put it down. Beautifully written and lavishly illustrated, Paul Rand by Steven Heller pays true homage to a man who was blessed with true talent, wit and intelligence. An amazing talent, and a fascinating book. A must-have for any serious design student or professional.

content designer content book [full of ideas]no decorationss

a book to keep for designers. heavy with ideas and great graphics. having known paul rand and being inspired by him the book also presented some graphics i have not seen as it was before my time. a book to refer to about design in general. solid text and research. miho