Welcome to our constantly evolving curation of the world's best graphic designers today.
Meaning we primarily showcase those still actively practicing their craft.
But first, what does the term 'graphic design' mean?
GRAPHIC DESIGNER DEFINITION:
The American Institute of Graphic Arts defines it as “the art and practice of planning and projecting ideas and experiences with visual and textual content.”
More succinctly, a graphic designer - creates visual content to communicate ideas and solve problems.
TYPES OF GRAPHIC DESIGNERS:
The profession spans a diverse set of sometimes overlapping skill sets, often seamlessly merging into one another.
Specialisations such as - web design, user interface & interactive design, advertising & marketing design, motion graphics & animation, packaging design, game design, illustration, publishing & typographic design.
GRAPHIC DESIGNER POST SUMMARY:
Though for this post we will focus on the print medium's greatest graphic designers.
The blank page from where it all began, so to speak.
We will continue to add, subtract and edit to the names and pieces featured below. So be sure to check back from time to time.
If you like this post, you'd love our graphic design powered website.
INDEX OF THE WORLD'S BEST GRAPHIC DESIGNERS:
Juan Carlos Pagan / Marian Bantjes / Jessica Walsh / Brian Gartside / Chip Kidd / Stefan Sagmeister / Jessica Svendsen / Paul Belford / Michael Bierut / David Carson / Michael Johnson
JUAN CARLOS PAGAN: carlospagan.com
Juan Carlos Pagan is a multi-disciplinary artist, designer, creative director and typographer working out of New York
Pagan is particularly renowned for his expertise in typography. His typographic designs are characterised by their innovative compositions, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to convey emotions and narratives through letterforms. His work demonstrates a deep understanding of typography as a powerful visual language.
In addition to typography, Pagan's portfolio includes projects in branding, editorial design, packaging, and more. His designs often reflect a strong conceptual foundation, combining strategic thinking with artistic expression to create unique and memorable visual identities.
MARIAN BANTJES: bantjes.com
Marian Bantjes' work is characterised by its meticulous attention to detail, imaginative use of typography, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. Her designs continue to inspire and captivate audiences, making her one of the most influential graphic designers of her generation.
Beyond her commercial work, Bantjes is also known for her personal projects, where she explores themes of beauty, ornamentation, and the intersection of art and design. She has published books showcasing her work and has received several awards and accolades for her contributions to the field of graphic design.
JESSICA WALSH: andwalsh.com
Jessica Walsh is a prominent graphic designer, art director, and entrepreneur known for her creative and innovative approach to design.
One of Walsh's notable contributions to the design industry is her emphasis on the intersection of design and storytelling.
Her work often incorporates narrative elements and explores the emotional and psychological aspects of design. She believes in the power of design to evoke emotions and create meaningful connections with audiences.
BRIAN GARTSIDE: briangartsi.de
Brian Gartside is a graphic designer & self professed type nerd based in New York. He works in advertising and is currently Design Director at the renowned ad agency Goodby Silverstein & Partners New York.
CHIP KIDD: chipkidd.com
Kidd gained widespread recognition for his unique and inventive approach to book cover design. His designs often incorporate bold typography, striking imagery, and unexpected visual elements, creating covers that captivate readers and visually convey the essence of the book.
Aside from his work in book cover design, Kidd has also designed album covers, movie posters, and various other print and digital media. His designs often incorporate a clever and witty approach, blending pop culture references and artistic elements to create visually striking and memorable compositions.
In addition to his design work, Kidd is a talented writer and has authored books on design, including "The Cheese Monkeys" and "Go: A Kidd's Guide to Graphic Design."
STEFAN SAGMEISTER: sagmeister.com
Sagmeister is recognised for his unique ability to blend design and art seamlessly, infusing his work with elements of storytelling, humour, and personal expression. He believes in the power of design to provoke emotions and create meaningful experiences for viewers.
Aside from his commercial work, Sagmeister is known for his self-initiated projects, which often involve exploring philosophical and introspective themes. In 2008, he released a documentary titled "The Happy Film," where he documented his journey in search of happiness.
JESSICA SVENDSEN: jessicasvendsen.com
Jessica is more influenced by fields outside graphic design, including architecture, film, literature and photography.
She describes her unique working style "
I deliberately try to work off the computer. I prefer using at least one analog device in my process because it requires that I work in physical space and with physical objects. I like the idea of creating defamiliarising work that’s impossible to replicate, and when I work with the constraints of analog formats, I often find unintended, unique results."
PAUL BELFORD: paulbelford.com
Paul Belford's expertise lies in creating visually striking and memorable advertising campaigns that effectively communicate brand messages.
He has a talent for combining typography, imagery, and graphic elements in innovative ways, resulting in campaigns that capture attention and leave a lasting impression. His work has been recognised and awarded by prestigious organszations, such as D&AD, Cannes Lions, and the One Show.
MICHAEL BIERUT: pentagram.com/about/michael-bierut
Bierut gained prominence as a partner at the renowned design firm Pentagram, where he has worked since 1990. His work encompasses a broad range of design disciplines, including branding, typography, logo design, environmental graphics, packaging, and more.
Bierut's design philosophy often centers around simplicity, clarity, and functionality. His work is known for its clean aesthetics, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to distill complex ideas into visually compelling and effective design solutions.
In addition to his design practice, Bierut is a dedicated educator and writer. He has taught at the Yale School of Art, where he also served as the director of the graphic design program
DAVID CARSON: davidcarsondesign.com
David Carson gained widespread recognition in the 1990s for his innovative and unconventional approach to design, particularly in the realm of magazine design. He served as the art director for Ray Gun magazine, where he introduced a radical aesthetic that challenged traditional design principles.
Carson's design style is characterised by experimental typography, fragmented layouts, and a disregard for conventional grid structures. He embraced the use of vibrant colours, varied typefaces, and expressive imagery, creating designs that were visually dynamic and emotionally impactful.
His work helped redefine the possibilities of graphic design, pushing the boundaries of legibility and challenging viewers to engage with design in new and unconventional ways.
MICHAEL JOHNSON: johnsonbanks.co.uk/about/michael-johnson
Michael Johnson is a highly accomplished graphic designer and the founder of Johnson Banks, a prominent design consultancy based in London, United Kingdom. Known for his strategic thinking and innovative design solutions, Johnson has made significant contributions to the field of graphic design.
One of Johnson's notable strengths lies in his ability to distill complex ideas and values into visually compelling and effective design solutions. He places great emphasis on research and strategic thinking, aiming to create designs that not only look visually appealing but also communicate a clear and meaningful message.
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