Graphic design is an integral part of the advertising industry, and George Lois was a major contributor to its development. His iconic work has been featured in numerous publications such as Esquire Magazine, and his influence on the field of graphic design is still seen today.
George Lois was born in 1929 in The Bronx, New York. He attended the High School of Music and Art, where he studied fine arts and began to develop his talents for illustration and design.
After graduating from school, he began working as a freelance designer for various magazines and newspapers. During this time, he developed an interest in typography and layout design.
In 1961, Lois was hired by Esquire Magazine as the art director. He quickly became known for his bold use of typeface and inventive layouts that often included photographs or illustrations that commented on the stories they were accompanying.
He also developed a style of “word-as-image” which utilized text to create powerful visuals that conveyed strong messages to readers. This technique was revolutionary at the time, as it allowed him to convey complex concepts quickly and effectively through a single image.
Lois also pioneered a new form of graphic design known as “the big idea” which focused on creating simple yet powerful visuals that could be used to sell products or services. His big ideas typically included bold typefaces or interesting visuals that were designed to draw attention to whatever message or product was being promoted. This form of graphic design helped revolutionize advertising and has become an essential component of modern campaigns.
Overall, George Lois’ contributions to graphic design have been immense. His bold use of typeface and innovative layouts have become standards in the industry, while his “word-as-image” technique has allowed marketers to communicate complex ideas quickly through visual images. His pioneering work with “the big idea” has also enabled advertisers to create powerful visuals that can be used effectively in various campaigns across multiple platforms.
Conclusion:
George Lois made significant contributions to graphic design with his innovative techniques such as his use of typeface and layout designs, word-as-image concept, and “the big idea” form of advertising visuals.