Scan barcode
ericfheiman's review
4.0
These days, design monographs really bore me, so I give design's patron saint and resident rock star his due for an inspiring read. He does amazing work, seems like a genuine, down to earth guy, and spared us the nude self-portraits this time around. But it's the honesty of his writing that endears him most. All in all a humbling and inspiring experience. I wish I knew him personally.
sebarose's review
5.0
A wonderful book full of great design features. The book is a piece of art and every section delights. The process of each design session is discussed in the text - the text is the weakest part of a fantastic book. The art and design projects displayed are awesome.
dumblydore's review
4.0
Ironically I'm not particularly interested in what Sagmeister has to say, because he says it all in his ambitious typographic installations, but I do love the format of the book/s.
I got to see him speak at agIdeas conference this year, and he speaks pretty much of the work in this book. Not particularly motivating to my surprise, but still provoked some reaction in me, which is more than I can say for other designers that spoke. I can see why his holier-than-thou posturing will "annoy" some though. But a bit of vanity never hurt anyone, especially in this fierce world of seeking the individual self.
I got to see him speak at agIdeas conference this year, and he speaks pretty much of the work in this book. Not particularly motivating to my surprise, but still provoked some reaction in me, which is more than I can say for other designers that spoke. I can see why his holier-than-thou posturing will "annoy" some though. But a bit of vanity never hurt anyone, especially in this fierce world of seeking the individual self.
thewoodenfinch's review
4.0
One of my favorite designers. Sagmeister is (at least to me) the epitome of what a graphic designer should be. He also fulfills my theory that the best designers are also hilarious.
This book is full of brilliant advice, hilarious (and also surprisingly touching) advice/observations on his life. There are a literal list of things he has learned, each accompanied by beautiful and inventive work that will inspire you. It’s hilarious, conceptual, smart, and most of all relevant. To everyone. The only thing that sort of bothers me is that while it is all (of course) brilliantly designed, the book itself is actually an odd 20 or so smaller books, which are sort of a pain to fit back into the case. My only complaint though, honest.
I would argue that even if you despise graphic design/art/witty people in general, there’s something in here for everyone. Read it.
This book is full of brilliant advice, hilarious (and also surprisingly touching) advice/observations on his life. There are a literal list of things he has learned, each accompanied by beautiful and inventive work that will inspire you. It’s hilarious, conceptual, smart, and most of all relevant. To everyone. The only thing that sort of bothers me is that while it is all (of course) brilliantly designed, the book itself is actually an odd 20 or so smaller books, which are sort of a pain to fit back into the case. My only complaint though, honest.
I would argue that even if you despise graphic design/art/witty people in general, there’s something in here for everyone. Read it.
pratul's review
3.0
I've seen so much of Stefan's work over the years -- thought provoking, provocative, downright nuts? However, this collection of his work and commentary in his own words was rather personal, for a change. I quite liked the emotions that come out in the book!
FWIW: it's quite short on content. One can probably go through the entirety of it in an hour or two.
FWIW: it's quite short on content. One can probably go through the entirety of it in an hour or two.
bibliocyclist's review
4.0
Low expectations are a good strategy.
Also:
Complaining is silly. Either act or forget.
Thinking life will be better in the future is stupid, I have to live now.
Being not truthful works against me.
Helping other people helps me.
Organizing a charity group is surprisingly easy.
Everything I do always comes back to me.
Drugs feel great in the beginning and become a drag later on.
Over time I get used to everything and start taking it for granted.
Money does not make me happy.
Traveling alone is helpful for a new perspective on life.
Assuming is stifling.
Keeping a diary supports my personal development.
Trying to look good limits my life. Worrying solves nothing.
Material luxuries are best enjoyed in small doses.
Having guts always works out for me.
Also:
Complaining is silly. Either act or forget.
Thinking life will be better in the future is stupid, I have to live now.
Being not truthful works against me.
Helping other people helps me.
Organizing a charity group is surprisingly easy.
Everything I do always comes back to me.
Drugs feel great in the beginning and become a drag later on.
Over time I get used to everything and start taking it for granted.
Money does not make me happy.
Traveling alone is helpful for a new perspective on life.
Assuming is stifling.
Keeping a diary supports my personal development.
Trying to look good limits my life. Worrying solves nothing.
Material luxuries are best enjoyed in small doses.
Having guts always works out for me.
More...