Art Direction Explained, at Last

This book is a highly informative, highly entertaining introduction to what art direction is and what art directors do. Written by two of the world's leading experts on the subject, it covers the role of art director in numerous environments, including magazines and newspapers, advertising, corporate identity, museums, and publishing. It also provides an insight into what makes a successful art director, what an art director actually does all day, what makes things go right, and what makes things go wrong.

Alongside perspectives on typography, illustration, and photography, there are case studies of successful art direction in different spheres, from McSweeney's to Vier5's web design. The authors have also invited pre-eminent international art directors to interpret their roles in special sections of the book that they have art directed themselves. The result is an impressive, enlightening, and often very funny diversity of perspectives and approaches.

Clearly written, including a glossary of handy art director sayings, an art director test, and more, Art Direction Explained, At Last will provide students with insights into the world of art direction and professionals with a perceptive overview of their profession.

Lively both visually and verbally, this guide to the profession for students as well as those already on the job begins by identifying what makes a great art director. Following is discussion of photography, typography, illustration, editing--all of which are within the art director's domain as he or she guides projects from inception to completion, keeping creativity flowing, yet channeled. Case studies of Kiehl's cosmetic pachages, Lloyd Ziff's Travel Photography, Peter Knapp's Courrèges spread in ELLE Magazine, among others are followed by abundantly illustrated contributed pieces addressing all aspects of the job. The two editors are affiliated with the School of Visual Arts, New York, and both have extensive experience as art directors: Steven Heller spent three decades at the New York Times; Veronique Vienne has worked for numerous US magazines including Parenting, Self, and the Sunday magazine of the San Francisco Examiner. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)