Once upon a time in the not too distant past, the people who designed our phones and advertising posters and logos were relatively anonymous. These days, though, designers like Jony Ives, Shepard Fairey or Art Chantry are celebrated in books and gallery exhibitions.
Add Aaron James Draplin to that list. His book Draplin Design Co.: Pretty Much Everything was published in May by Harry Abrams. Draplin is a man who has developed a cult-like following in the boarding, graphic design, and stationery worlds, and this collection makes it easy to see why.
In a down-to-earth prose style that’s often imitated by his fans, Draplin tells his life story: How he became obsessed with drawing and doodling; his youthful adventures as an avid skate and snowboarder; his design education; his early work as a magazine and agency designer; and the challenges of going independent.
Accompanying the words are beautifully arranged photos of Draplin’s studio, his collections, his merchandise, his notebooks, and most intriguingly, his work. He also offers advice to readers who want to get into design—or any kind of independent endeavor.
The big guy is also as sentimental as it comes. He not only thanks the teachers and mentors who helped him along the way, he also name-checks the friends, relatives, pets, and collaborators who have made his life more meaningful. It’s a rare book that will make you a better designer and a better person, but this is one of them.
For more, visit the Slate Book Review at www.slate.com/books.