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Job:01304 Title: 1000 more graphic elem (Rockport)
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Text
, tighter deadlines, and shorter attention
spans, many creative professionals are contemplating the plausibility of seem-
ingly frivolous design gestures. Designed and curated as a sequel to one of
Rockport’s most popular titles, 1000 More Graphic Elements demonstrates why
the thoughtful and strategic application of special fi nishing techniques is more
important and relevant than ever.
Grant Design Collaborative believes that the printed image and clever copy
can only communicate a limited amount of rational information. In order to
fully engage consumers, designers must reach deep inside their psyches to tap
into emotions. Finishing techniques o er an alternate language or vocabulary,
allowing the designer to articulate meaning and intention. Tactile e ects, such
as foil stamping, letterpress, and jewel-like tip-ons, can enamor the user with a
sensory experience and liberate the jaded mind of the typical consumer who is
bombarded with thousands of daily brand impressions.
With epidemic attention defi cit disorders and an alarming demand for instant
gratifi cation, goaded by a shift toward web-based applications, it is essential
to inspire consumers to savor the experience of a thoughtfully and beautifully
crafted design artifact. Unique fi nishes and materials create a viewer experi-
ence and transform a printed piece into a gift waiting to be opened.
More than a mere continuation of a theme, this volume presents a survey of
the current state of graphic design detail. This impressive collection of inter-
national and culturally diverse work varies substantially from the fi rst volume,
and it is intriguing to note the trends that have emerged within the course
of just a few short years. Various assumptions can be made as to why cer-
tain techniques, materials, and colors have gained popularity, yet a defi nitive
answer is hard to ascertain. However, Grant Design Collaborative did note
one signifi cant trend that points to a greater overall use of restraint. From
printing techniques to color palettes, a more refi ned—albeit more strategic—
approach to design has emerged. Simple binding, specialty papers, or
minimal embossings are used to maximum e ect through striking graph-
ics or spare compositions. In many cases, the human hand has been
placed at the forefront of design intention, as “handcrafted” design, literal
or fi gurative, has evolved to a higher level of prominence in the popular
consciousness. Similarly, color palettes appear to have shifted in favor of
comforting and familiar neutrals and earth tones, although occasional and
dramatic hits of warm fl uorescents, such as yellow, are often employed for
emphasis. Whatever has been lost in conspicuous applications of fi nishing
techniques has been gained in ink, as bold graphics, dynamic compositions,
and sophisticated color fl ourishes push the selections to greater heights.
Exceptions abound, yet a clear narrative unfolds: restraint reigns supreme, and
a strategic and intentional use of materials and special techniques is driving
the use of graphic elements in design at this time.
Grant Design Collaborative
www.grantcollaborative.com
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