This triannual publication, Eye on Design, by AIGA, American Institute of Graphic Arts, explores the connections between graphic design and the wider world. Each issue is carefully curated by the editorial staff and designed by a guest designer. The theme of issue #04 is “Worth” and is designed by David Benski, based out of Berlin. Benski is known for his energetic use of typography, inventive approach to text layouts and his experimental approach to magazine-making. Hemlock Printers in Canada printed and bound.

Innovative Graphic Design and Printing

This magazine is a showcase for stories, in-depth reporting and exceptional illustrators, photographers and designers, a perfect example of design journalism. The “Worth” issue is a Gallery Favorite because of the innovative design and outstanding print quality. One of the most striking techniques is how Benski pushed the text to the edges of the pages and how the book was trimmed exactly to intentionally crop the text. This is a fantastic example of designer and printer collaboration because combining this design technique with the incredible preciseness of the crop is exceptional.

Printed on Cougar® Paper

The creative brief specified bright, colorful and loud images and Benkski delivered. The vivid color pops off the page with flawless solids and excellent detail reproduction. Printed on Cougar® 80 lb Text, Super Smooth Finish for the interior pages and Cougar 100 lb Cover for the outside of the magazine. Other design elements include soft and out of focus colors that provide an ethereal quality and contrast well with the bolder layouts. The cover consists of a die-cut that is an “eye” and peeks through to the softer elements representing the pupil. It’s not the flashiest technique but so effective, simple and eye-catching, all on Cougar paper.

Collaboration at its Finest

Eye on Design magazine takes a decidedly different approach to design journalism. In addition, it’s a collaborative project between designers, illustrators, photographers and printers. The result is a publication that is filled with stories that question how we value design–measured in money, power, influence and feelings. Visit eyeondesign.aiga.org to learn more about featured stories and to order your copy.