We haven’t done a good book recomendation in a while and have I got a good one for you. Charley Harper his a master of illustration. His stylized animal illustrations, United States National Park Service posters, and numerous other projects make this book “Charley Harper: An Illustrated Life” a must have for any designer. A quick google search and you’ll find some spectacular mosaic murals, including one for the Cincinnati Federal Building.

Mr. Harper’s work is profound for a few reasons. His sense of negative space makes him the granddaddy of our beloved Shadow League designs. The way he contorts and simplifies his subjects simultaneously animates and gives them iconic shape. But what I find most impressive is his ability to simplify. But not just simplicity for the sake of simplicity. His simplicity becomes a tool for storytelling. Check out that turtle on the cover of the book. No head, no tail, no legs, a square composition, removing those things that would terrify the average designer. But Charley turns it into a story, the turtle infused with life and a personality. Amazing. Get the book and be amazed. My New Year’s resolution? Think more like Charley Harper.

Thanks to Miki for the Book. Thanks to Sam for prodding me to do the post.