Graphic design is an interdisciplinary and applied art, in which designers use visual communication techniques to convey messages. These may include branding, illustration and photography. The practice of graphic design involves creativity, innovation and lateral thinking.

The graphic design industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the world, with a growing demand for creative professionals across all fields and disciplines. The graphic designer is responsible for the conceptualisation, development and production of print, digital and multimedia materials used to communicate with a specific target audience.

From the fundamentals to advanced techniques, we’ve rounded up our top 10 graphic design books and resources for any creative who wants to learn more about this dynamic profession. With everything from a guide to the history of modernism to an in-depth look at how graphic design shaped Canadian identity, there’s something here for every designer.

Design is Storytelling by Ellen Lupton

A writer, curator and educator, Ellen Lupton has written a playbook for how to harness the narrative power of design. She teaches readers how to stir emotions, build empathy, articulate values and convey action in the design process by focusing on storytelling.

If you’re a fan of contemporary design, this series is a must-watch. Featuring interviews with a selection of the best and brightest of the design world, each episode is around 40 minutes long and gives you a peek into the lives of some of the most respected design firms.

Stitt Autobiographics by Alex Stitt

Described as a “pictorial record” of the 50-year career of design icon Alex Stitt, this book takes you behind the scenes of a man who has been at the heart of so many aspects of Australian culture since the 1950s. With over 1,800 illustrations, comic strips and storyboards to explore, this is a fascinating read for anyone interested in learning about a truly creative genius.

British Rail Corporate Identity Manual by Wallace Henning

A beautiful collection of the original British Railways corporate identity manual, this curated book is a wonderful source of inspiration for any designer who works with corporate branding. It covers everything from the rail operator’s symbol, logotype and lettering to guidance on signage, vehicles and stationery.

The Graphic Design Series by Shillington

If you want to become a designer, but aren’t sure where to start, this is the course for you. It’s a self-paced, comprehensive five-course series that will take you from the basics to advanced techniques. It includes videos and readings, practice quizzes and graded assignments with peer feedback to help you master the skills needed for a career in graphic design.

What’s more, you can earn a degree in three months full-time or nine months part-time on campus or online! You can also get a free trial of the online course here.

100 Ideas that Changed the World by Hillman Curtis

If you work in product design, this is an essential resource for you. Arranged in chronological order, each idea is presented through a combination of text and images that illustrate when it first evolved and its impact on the modern world.