OUGD504 Studio Brief 01 - Every Book Starts with an Idea: Notes for Designers - Armand Mevis

Every Book Starts with an Idea: Notes for Designers - Armand Mevis
(Notes):

The article begins by talking about the fact that there are lot's of books being produced all of the time, which in turn means lot's of work for designers. This is a positive aspect within book design which shows that there is a demand for this work. Mevis and Deursen have produced a number of books, not all of them have succeeded. Because of this they have 'learnt to limit mistakes'. This is important because it shows that it is all a learning process and over time, you won't be making the same mistakes, your practice will improve and become more professional.

Mevis goes on to the idea that all books start with a question, and if not you must find out what the question is, as this is the only way to move forward with the book design. There are also times when sometimes you don't know where to begin, or it's not the way you wanted to work, or maybe even the conditions are ideal. This is saying that you will face problems but you have to start thinking how you are going to deal with them and make them work for you. Types of questions that needed to be answered e.g. 'What needs to be done? What are the main issues that need attention, the problems to be solved? What does not work, what is missing? How to create the right conditions for a workable situation?'

You might need to fight for things during a project, such as money, expectations, content etc. This might require you to rethink situations, Mevis highlighted that this is essential and you will see the benefits of this through your design. We also need to be aware that it is a collaborative process, so the brief needs to be clear so that a clear understanding of the design is established. 

Within the content there needs to be a full understanding, to find balance between design. It advises you to be aware of decisions and the impact they have. Encouraging you to stick to your ideas and tells you to be yourself. I found this a really motivating and an inspiring piece of the article, to have more confidence within myself.

'If you were able to link the content to your concept and concept to a form, you have succeeded.'

The article comes to the end talking about technical restrictions like dimensions and binding, but enthuses that you should make the best of restrictions and dreaming big ideas is important. Overall this article has made me feel excited for the challenges to come within book production, and motivated me to produce the best piece of design I can.