David Carson
David Carson is an American graphic designer and art director. He is best known for his innovative magazine design, and use of experimental typography. He was the art director for the magazine 'Ray Gun', this was an American alternative rock n roll magazine, first published in 1992. David Carson's widely imitated aesthetic was defined as the so-called "grunge typography" era. He only produced these magazines for three years, then left the industry. However the abstract style of 'Ray Gun' lives on.
Examples of David Carson's abstract Ray Gun covers.
This is extremely unusual compared to any magazines produced before as the photograph is positioned upside down. Although it does look edgy and abstract which was the aim of David Carson, I personally think it is not a very effective feature. Another strange feature of the magazine cover is that printed very big and boldly in nearly the centre of the page is the price, this is very unusual as normally the price is very hidden. Again I personally don't think this is very effective as the price might be too much for the buyer and straight away put them off.
Good so far Chelsea. With 'Ray Gun', add to this post and consider if this style would work today and be successful for a new music magazine; or has it all been done before and today's audience would not accept this type of design.
ReplyDeleteNext steps - post every two or three days as a rule of thumb Cheslea. (And get better!)