Art And Designs Are Two Very Different Ideas In Graphic Designer's World

You've probably seen his 'I Love NY' advertising blitz; innumerable amounts of bumper stickers, t-shirts and buttons flooded the state. His notable singer's silhouette adorned with lightning bolts of colorful hair is well known to a whole generation.

Any record collection from the 60s features at least one or more covers that were created by this famous designer, his work has permeated our culture. His name may not be as well known as his work, but his work is recognized instantly by millions of people. But, can it be called art? He'd rather not become involved in a conversation about this topic. Actually, he would rather not use the term art entirely. When interviewed in his studio, the artist suggested that the word 'art' be removed from our language and that we refer to everything as work. Then, when the work is far above normal, we can refer to it as 'great work.' If it hits its mark, it can be referred to as 'good' and if it fails, call it 'bad'.

In one of his main exhibits, the thoughts of the man who is usually known as the Picasso of design are traced. Using bright red rope, he showed the interconnection between the finished works and their inspirations. He also hung process drawings and sketches. He says art is a process. Not knowing your exact desired end point, you allow your mind to travel as you search for inspiration.

An additional gorgeous painting was inspired by an angel postcard and paper wings. A postcard of an angel with some paper wings, for instance, led to a painted variation of the initial theme. A comic strip is hung across from another stunning work. This poster mocks the stuffiness of classical music and shows a very well-known pianist sneezing.

He says he's always gained inspiration by looking at the world as a great visual resource. One poster that he designed for a typewriter company in Italy utilized a famous painting as its theme to convey a distinct message. The painting that inspired the piece shows a heartbroken dog curled up beside the feet of his late master. The dog is resting next to a red typewriter in the poster.

He inspired and led the creation of a New York studio that influences other designers to create better work. He also co-founded one of New York's major magazines, which influenced the tone of magazines all over the country. A standard exhibition for a notable trade center, an observation deck and restaurants are all works he has completed. He was also the designer of the red AIDs ribbon which is an instantly recognizable icon. He says he's always wanted to see how far he can push his boundaries, and so he's taken on all sorts of jobs.

The famous poster of the male singer is one of his best-known works to date with over 6 million copies in print. The profile in this elaborate and wild work can also be traced back to a piece by another famous artist, to which the graphic designer's work was a response. The designer jokes that people often think he was on drugs when he came up with these visuals. Naturally, he says he has never been involved in drug usage. Adults can enjoy his work when visiting a playground he created just for them; he also made a children's play area.