Graphic Design 14, 1964
Graphic Design / グラフィックデザイン was a monthly Japanese magazine published by Diamond Publishing that explored graphic design and visual culture. This covered the latest in Japanese design and some of its history as well as international developments, competitions, exhibitions and new publications. As well as designer showcases, reviews and reportage. It is distinctive in its proportionality, 300mm × 260mm (which feels nearly square), and in its mix of papers. These includes semi-transparent substrates, over-print detail and dyed uncoated papers towards the back of the magazine.
This has to be the most stunning in terms of cover, content and materiality from the series. The cover is taken from a section inside, part of an ongoing feature of the magazine called “Graphic Design Laboratory”, an experimental space of visual and material design. It features a striking illustration resembling something of the nerves of an eye applied as an over-print on semi-transparent paper with a lovely glossy surface texture. This is the beautiful and unexpected work of designer Awazu Kiyoshi. Other highlights include a feature on Studio Boggeri, an Italian design studio and another on the works of Nakajo Masayoshi.
This issue is predominantly Japanese texts, however, it includes English captions throughout and English summaries printed on an uncoated mustard paper towards the back. A call for entries for Typomundo 20–a perforated insert with tip in and gate fold–remains intact in this copy. The tip in and lighter substrate helps this stand out, with a continuity existing in a similar uncoated surface texture.
It is a beautiful example of what graphic design magazines once were, and could of course, be again. Each page is a surprise and a delight, with thoughtful mix of visual ideas, texts and compositions.
Title: Graphic Design
Issue: Number 14, January
Year: 1964
Pages: 90
Size: 300mm × 260mm
Format: Soft Cover Magazine
Language: Japanese w/ English Summery