Modernist Graphic Design in Britain 1945-1980

Modernist Graphic Design in Britain 1945–1980

by Ian McLaren and Tony Pritchard

This publication is strictly limited to just 500 copies. 

“An important publication on modernism during that particular period. Very impressive." Margaret Calvert, OBE

The years following the second world war in Britain saw the emergence of what has become known as graphic design. Designers of that period believed their efforts aligned with the rebuilding of society and its infrastructure. Despite acute austerity there was a very positive optimism to what they could contribute. Many challenged developments such as nuclear weapons; apartheid; and promoting trivial products.

Modernist graphic design is characterised by visual attributes such as simple sans-serif typography, the dynamic use of space and grid systems, reductive drawing and cropped photography. Innovative technological advances are embraced, in a functional, economic, and rational ethos.

The authors contend that much of British Modernist graphic design includes an under appreciated and unique sense of wit. The book is the first to provide a representative collection of a number of designers who made a significant and enduring contribution to British visual culture.

Ian McLaren has worked in more than thirty countries as a graphic designer, consultant, and academic. His work is held in British, German, Polish, Swiss and US collections. He is best known for his work on the Munich Olympics, signing of the Lyon Métro, and France Télécoms ‘Minitél’ user interface. He was British representative on ISO 7001 ‘Symbols internationally tested for public recognition’. He has contributed to numerous books, journals, and reports for international organisations including the European Commission and UNESCO.  

Tony Pritchard was course leader of the Postgraduate Certificate and Diploma in Design for Visual Communication courses at the London College of Communication, University of the Arts, London. He is a former editor of the International Society of Typographic Designers’ journal ‘Typographic’.

Contents
Introduction and historical context
Influential schools and colleges
Designers’ profiles
Key people and organisations
Evolution of group practice
What is the legacy?

".... a seriously rigorous piece of work, outstanding." Mark Farrow RDI 

“It's a remarkable work, offering meticulously researched insights and carefully selected images that chart the story of UK design from the post-war period to 1980. For anyone interested in modernism, this book is a valuable resource and a powerful tool that provides a clear window into the movement's rationale. It should be in every school and uni's library.” Mike Dempsey, RDI

“A fantastic and sought after publication.” Bryan Edmondson, Sea Design

Hardback, 432 pages
Full colour
170mm x 240mm
ISBN 978-1-7394927-2-4

*NB some of the images shown here are digital impressions, the actual books may be slightly different.