From the
Atlantic's review of the new book,
In Search of the Miraculous or One Thing Leads to Another, by designer of icons, Milton Glaser
Although he has written considerably about the nature of design,
Glaser says "in this book I've reduced what I've learned to a few
hundred words. My sense is that I'm doing less 'showing off' and more
'passing things on'."
The Zen theme of one idea leading to another on a continuum of
creative activity derives from Glaser's observation that "there doesn't
seem to be such a thing as an unconnected event. Certainly, in my own
life and work, the inevitable consequence of one thing influencing
another is apparent. Of course, you only have time to realize this
retrospectively."
For his exhibition, Glaser created an accordion-folded "Users Guide"
to understanding examples on the wall. The book version is more akin Ways of Seeing
by John Berger, a critic whom Glaser deeply respects "and who has
certainly influenced my thinking." The book uses some of his favorite
work as examples of what Glaser believes are the most fundamental issues
of design: "intentionality and consequence."
...
"We're clearly at a point in human history where the idea of
unrestrained competition and a 'dog eat dog' atmosphere are no longer
beneficial or relevant," he says. "This shift has certainly affected my
view of a designer's role in civilization and culture, and made me more
concerned about the consequences of my daily activity. My two prevailing
beliefs are still: Do no harm. Do good work."
