The Language of Graphic Design: An Illustrated Handbook for Understanding Fundamental Design Principles

Rockport Publishers, 2011
Hardcover, paperback, e-book
288 pages, 400 images
8.9 x 10.25 inches

The Language of Graphic Design: An Illustrated Handbook for Understanding Fundamental Design Principles is a comprehensive guide to the fundamental elements and principles of graphic design. It showcases work by some of the profession’s most renowned practitioners, as well as students, providing essential information, inspiration, and guidance for readers of all experience levels. Each of the book’s 26 chapters (a reference to the English alphabet—the building blocks for Western language) define a fundamental element of a graphic designer’s vocabulary (i.e. point, line, shape, form, light, color) detailing what each is, why it is important, and how to use it effectively. A straightforward reference for core design curriculum, this volume offers clear and concise information to enhance a reader’s visual literacy and provides dynamic, indelible, visual references to inform, inspire, and reinforce a sense of ‘seeing.’ The Language of Graphic Design provides essential information and influential resources on the basic tenets of visual communications and graphic design fundamentals. Easily accessible and always informative, it is a meaningful, memorable, and inspiring design tool that readers will refer to time and time again. 

The book is currently in its second printing and is also available in French, Chinese, Czech, Polish, Spanish, and Taiwanese editions. 

The book was recognized by Graphis and SEGDesign for Design Excellence in Publication Design.

Reviews and Endorsements

“There are a number of books that tout design as language, Richard Poulin's The Language of Graphic Design: An Illustrated Handbook for Understanding Design Principles lives up to its subtitle . . . As a sophisticated primer of this expanding language, Poulin's book will both elucidate and excite.” 

—Steven Heller, Print Magazine

“The book is beautiful, inspirational, and informative — packed with information that design novices and seasoned professionals can refer to.”

—Emily Potts, Contributing Editor, Against the Grain

“A fantastic book every design aficionado should have in their library.” 

—CJ Dellatore, cjdellatore.com

“The definitive book for guidance and inspiration and one that I will insist be required reading for all my students.”

—Richard Wilde, Chairperson, Advertising and Graphic Design, School of Visual Arts