Harry Potter, Only Better

Feast your eyes on these fabulous cover re-designs of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Needless to say, if these covers had been published instead, I might have actually read the series by now.

I know, right?

See more of this style here and here. It’s incredible stuff.

Helvetica, Homage to a Typeface

If you love Helvetica, you love this book.

Even if you don’t know a thing about the world’s most recognizable typeface, it’s worth a read. You’ll see some of the most celebrated posters set in Helvetica, a multitude of logos, and read thoughts on the typeface from designers around the world.

Also, there is a very entertaining essay from the author bound into the middle. He closes with this phrase: “Helvetica is the perfume of the city”.

To learn more, and laugh more, I’d recommend the documentary Helvetica.

Books To Read

Or rather to see, since these are art books. 

P.S. I am tired.
P.P.S. Therefore I promise a much more comprehensive and better-looking list in the near future.

ABC3D

On a venture yesterday we discovered ABC3D and were smitten. A friend who was with us looked at the book in confusion, and asked simply, “Why?” Seeing our shocked expressions, she clarified, “What would you use it for?” I love pop-up books. And I have for years, so my reply was “look at it. Put it on your desk, turn one page every day. That’s what it’s for.”

She laughed at me.

But that’s okay. I freely admit to being a nerd, and I am going to share ABC3D with you anyway.

This book was created by Marion Bataille. If you really enjoy pop-ups, however, and want to see some incredible pieces, check out the work of Robert Sabuda, specifically America the Beautiful, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and The Wizard of Oz.

Fingerprint

Fingerprint is a lovely book that teaches the importance of handmade elements. Lettering, illustration, mixed media, letterpress, found objects, what have you. Written by Chen Design Associates, they say, “You’ll find inspiration in examples from outstanding designers and see how traditional elements can make a more powerful statement than anesthesized computer-only work.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

“Design is at a turning point. Our infatuations with – and the backlash against – technology is over. Today’s best designers have learned to embrace its advantages and think beyond its limitations by combining the power of the computer with the tactile qualities of handmade elements.”

Go ahead, make your mark.

Hand Job

It’s a catalog of type, and, I might add, one of the most brilliant collections of hand-drawn goodies around. 

Compiled by letter enthusiast Michael Perry, Hand Job includes selections from the likes of Tyler Askew, Daniel Black (who sells his stunning hand-printed promo posters for cheap), and Jeremy Dean. Also be wowed by Deanne Cheuk’s watercolors, witness the wit of Adrian Johnson (need a sophisticated color palette? He’s the man), et cetera, et cetera. 

Basically, just get your hands on this tome. You can find it almost anywhere. 

Also, check out Mr. Perry’s stunning portfolio and buy his work at www.midwestisbest.com.