Reading Graphic Design in Cultural Context explains key ways of understanding and interpreting the graphic design we see all around us, in advertising, branding, packaging, and fashion by situating these designs in their cultural and social contexts.

Drawing examples from a range of design genres, design historians Grace Lees-Maffei and Nicolas P. Maffei explain theories of semiotics, postmodernism, and globalization, and consider issues and debates within visual communication theory such as legibility, the relationship of word and image, gender and identity, and the impact of digital forms on design. Their discussion takes in well-known brands like Alessi, Nike, Unilever, and Tate, as well as everyday-designed things like slogan t-shirts, car advertising, digital books, corporate logos, posters, and music packaging.

Cover design by Louise Dugdale

Published by Bloomsbury Visual Arts, 2019

Softcover, 248 pages, 25 color and 84 black & white images, 7.5 × 9.75 inches

ISBN: 978-0-85-785801-6