Issue

Last week's release of the much anticipated Helvetica film reminded me that I haven't yet blogged these Cartlidge Levene designed issues of Issue, the Design Museum's quarterly, from the early 90s.

(Incidentally, Chris from Fallt and Fehler is trying to get the film to Belfast, which would be brilliant).

Issue specifically, and more generally the work of Cartlidge Levene, had a big effect on me as a novice designer. You see, I had originally set out to become a technical illustrator but, after a while, realised that that career wouldn't offer the creative opportunities that I craved. So I diverted towards graphic design but retained a liking for construction, mathematics and draughtsmanship.

I think these disciplines are evident in much of Cartlidge Levene's work, which is often very structured, constructivist (in the broader sense of the word), dynamic and very beautiful.

Issue shows how a strict grid system, limited use of color, Helvetica and economic use of photography can still mean surprising, exciting and dramatic page layout.