Visual Communication: From Theory to Practice explores how cultural theory can be applied to the real-world practice of graphic design. Theories are presented and then discussed by designers such as Neville Brody, Michael Bierut, Erik Spiekermann and Joan Farrer. Issues such as mass culture, political design and semiotics are all debated, making this a unique companion to theory and culture modules on any undergraduate degree course in graphic design. Visual Communication helps students to develop sound critical judgment and informed strategies for the conception of new ideas that accurately reflect the current zeitgeist.

How to use this bookThe Theory Foreword: Isn't design simply all about 'the visual'?The PracticeForewordChapter One: CommunicationAims of chapter 1The TheoryIntroduction: Even natural processes have explanationsCommunication as a processSemioticsAll design is political: part oneAfterword: No more rules?The PracticeIntroductionNeville BrodyMichael BierutQuestions in summaryChapter Two: CultureAims of chapter 2The TheoryIntroduction: Everyday visual communicationWhat is culture?All design is political: part twoStyle and identityAfterword: 'Meaningful' is not the same as 'full of meaning'... The PracticeIntroductionJoan FarrerShin Azumi and Tomoko AzumiQuestions in summaryChapter Three: ConflictAims of chapter 3The TheoryIntroduction:Form versus function: Styling as communicationAll design is political: part threeThe political designerDesign under threat?Afterword: Beneath the surfaceThe PracticeIntroductionErik SpiekermannEmmi SalonenQuestions in summaryDesign/photography biographiesBibliographyIndexCredits