AIGA Award Recognizes Excellence in Graphic Design

by Sarah Clark
sarah.clark@graphicdesignschoolreview.com
Graphic Design School Review Columnist

The AIGA medal is one of the most desirable distinctions awarded in the graphic design community. It has been bestowed on such design luminaries as Milton Glaser, Massimo and Lella Vignelli, and Alfred A. Knopf.

Recognizing Achievement in Visual Communication

Originally founded as the American Institute for Graphic Arts, AIGA has bestowed its prestigious design award to over a hundred designers since the 1920s. While recipients of the award possess remarkable accomplishment in visual communication, their work isn't always limited to the commercial practice of design. Educators and critics of graphic design have also been awarded the AIGA medal.

2006 AIGA Award Winners

This year's recipients include Michael Bierut of Pentagram, Rick Valicenti of 3st, and Lorraine Wild of Green Dragon Office. These three visual communication and design leaders earned their award for different areas of expertise and accomplishment.

Michael Bierut has been a graphic design leader since acquiring a position as vice-president of design for the prestigious design firm Vignelli Associates. Today he is a partner at Pentagram, a New York City-based product, building, and graphic design company.

Rick Valicenti introduced the graphic design philosophy "Art With Function" to clients of his firm, Thirst. Valicenti is also an accomplished typographer whose work has been featured at the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum.

Lorraine Wild also honed her visual communication skills at Vignelli Associates. However, she is better known as a highly accomplished book designer and historian. She recently collaborated with actor Ben Stiller on a book, Looking at Los Angeles.

Finding Inspiration in Graphic Design Legends

It may be too early in your graphic design career to compare yourself to these accomplished veterans. Studying their roots can give you a strong sense of how your own graphic design career can grow.

Sources
AIGA

About the Author
Sarah Clark is a freelance writer specializing in education and career development.