Stuff I like right now.

(Design-related)

The next two editions of this newsletter are a little different.

With it being the summer break, I thought I’d try something new.

Today, I’m excited to share ten design-related things I’ve been enjoying recently.

In two weeks I’ll do the same, but with things that aren’t design-related.

Enjoy!

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through one of these links, I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you. This helps support my mission to empower and equip through design, so thank you!

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1. A deep dive into the psychology of colour

I learnt so much listening to marketing author Adam Alter on Steven Bartlett’s podcast. I was particularly struck by the conversation about Drunk Tank Pink: a particular shade used to paint prison walls as it supposedly has a pacifying effect. But there’s one major problem. Discover what it is by having a listen:

2. Spotlighting invisible design

Graphic design for movies. Californian dingbat apartments. The swearing ‘bleep’ sound. This classic podcast is effectively a series of beautifully-produced radio documentaries about the design and architecture we might miss if we’re not looking closely:

3. Branding: a story as old as time

I love how design expert Debbie Millman opens up the definition of branding in this short video, suggesting that it is actually fundamental to human nature:

4. Fonts are fun

Struthless is a YouTuber who tells “big weird stories, hopefully good ones”. Well, this is certainly a good one. And quite a weird one, too. He unpacks the history of typography in his unique style, crafting a 30-minute documentary that will convert even the biggest type-sceptic:

5. Why?

An oldie but a goodie. And the first question I ask clients when I am working with them to create a brand identity:

6. Mastering free design tools

This YouTube channel is a goldmine for learning to use free design tools, especially my personal favourite (Inkscape):

Speaking of free design tools, have you read this?

Free design tools.

7. Green graphic design

Emma, who was recently on my podcast, writes an excellent newsletter about sustainable graphic design, covering everything from paper stocks to food packaging. I am regularly learning something new from her and having many of my assumptions debunked:

8. Une exposition sur le graphisme

Since January, I have been based in Lyon, France. A few months ago, I went to visit a Shepard Fairey exhibition in the city centre. The artist did the famous ‘HOPE’ poster for Barack Obama. Here are a few pictures (I was thrilled that it was drawing such a big crowd):

Here’s a book of Fairey’s work, if you’re interested in discovering him yourself (affiliate link):

9. A huge influence

This book was a big part of my decision to niche down and focus on brand identity design. I find myself regularly returning to it for inspiration (affiliate link):

10. Movie posters aren’t what they used to be

Another great book. This one is a collection of alternative movie posters. Each one is a beautiful work of art, ranging from the minimalist to the hyper-detailed (affiliate link):

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Thanks so much for reading. I appreciate you!

And, like I say, I’ll be back in two weeks with ten things I’m currently enjoying that have nothing to do with design.