How did you get the idea of creating a book on diagrams?
As designers and lecturers within the School of Art and Design at the University of Wolverhampton UK, we are aware that diagrammatic information is frequently utilised ‘as image’ within a variety of design solutions. Diagrams are being used by choice, not simply because statistical data needs to be interpreted. It’s also evident that increasingly graphic design needs to communicate to international audiences, using visual language, as opposed to a written alternative.
Having researched examples of diagrams we realise that there is a fascinating and varied wealth of designs that when brought together, make a valuable and extremely interesting book. We feel that “there are no rules and regulations as to what has to be included in a visual interpretation of data, so long as it communicates in a manner that can be understood. Any images, marks, and text can be used. ‘Diagrams’ introduces readers to an exceptional standard and variety of imaginative information graphics that incorporate a whole raft of techniques.” (sourced from the introduction to Diagrams by Carolyn Knight and Jessica Glaser)
How much time have you been working on the book?
It has probably taken 9 months from start to finish. Initially we have researched and contacted appropriate designers from around the world, to invite them to submit examples of their work. We have then selected designs that fit in to 5 sections and proceeded to analytically write about the graphic design decisions that defined each piece; in each instance, we have enjoyed liaising with the designers to ascertain their methodologies, and details of the initial brief to which they have responded. The sections deal with diagrammatic interpretations for branding and promotion, statistics, environmental design, reference and instruction and finally reference and exhibitions.
What can I find in the book?
The book includes a wealth of exciting, high quality diagrammatic interpretations of information, created by talented designers from around the world and is extremely stimulating and inspiring, both visually and intellectually. Even if a search for a method of diagrammatic interpretation is not a main aim, this book is a highly captivating read. Many of the featured designs are very original, taking unexpected, creative approaches. Each example is accompanied by a helpful explanation and analysis as well as, in many cases, reference information that contextualises the designers’ inspiration.
“If information graphics were once considered uninspiring and lacking in creativity, the contemporary design solutions in this book provide a totally different and fascinating perspective.” (sourced from the introduction to Diagrams by Carolyn Knight and Jessica Glaser)
The book is accompanied by a CD of copyright free symbolic images that can be easily employed, adapted, referenced and personalized for use within future designs.
Can you tell me about both of you, your work at your studio, background, previous books?
We are writers, graphic designers and educators. We have written and designed seven books. ‘Layout: Making It Fit’, our first book was published by Rockport and fundamentally discusses the use of space in graphic design, particularly exploring the challenges of designing with quantities of information in limited space and small amounts of information within more generous space. Our second book, published this time by Rotovision, is called ‘The Graphic Designers’ Guide to Effective Visual Communication’ and focuses on creating hierarchies using type, image and colour. ‘Sticky Graphics’, again a Rotovision publication, deals with the manner in which designers produce highly mnemonic designs that utilise memorable qualities to create impact, and was our third publication. Our next 2 titles are ‘Create Impact with Type, Image and Color’ and ‘Print and Production Finishes for Bags, Labels and Point of Purchase’ and our most recent books are ‘Diagrams: Innovative Solutions for Graphic Designers’, and ‘The Graphic Design Exercise Book’. We are delighted that Gustavo Gili is publishing both of these in Spanish and we hope they will be received well.
We enjoy running a design studio called Bright Pink that handles a broad spectrum of design work for such areas as housing, beauty, finance, health and textiles. We also both have many years of teaching experience within lively the Graphic Communication subject area of the University of Wolverhampton.
We constantly have design projects and writing assignments ‘on the go’ and are perpetually enthusiastic and committed to excellence and innovation in graphic design.
