Sketchbook: Conceptual Drawings from the World's Most Influential Designers

by Timothy O'Donnell

This book explores influential designers’ sketchbooks as a truer reflection of a designer’s thought processes, preoccupations, and problem-solving strategies than can be had by simply viewing finished projects. Highly personal and idiosyncratic, sketchbooks offer an arena for unstructured exploration, a space free from all budgetary and client constraints. Visually arresting objects in their own right, this book aims to elevate sketches from mere ephemera to important documents where the reader can glean valuable insight into the creative process, and apply it to their own practices. Featured designers include Ralph Caplan, Nigel Holmes, Chris Bigg, Eva Jiricna, Jason Munn, Gary Baseman, Marian Bantjes, and many others.

Genres: Art, Design, Nonfiction, Reference

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Elizabeth A · Rating 3 out of 5]

This showed up on my library hold list, and though I've read it before I quite enjoyed dipping in again. I'm a person who keeps various kinds of journals and sketchbooks and I always enjoy looking through someone else's books - with their permission of course! This one is a fun look at how a selection of designers came up with some of their final products, and while not for everyone, if you are interested in the subject matter, give it a try.

[Kristi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed looking through this book. It is a lot of different designer's thought processes and showing their sketchbooks. It is always interesting to see the process of how a design is created. Where it starts and where it finishes.

[Emily Morrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating glimpses into artists' minds. Made me want to start my own sketchbook.

[Francine Fang · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing is more interesting than reading other sketchbooks. The selection of contents and structure of the book are convincing.