Renowned graphic designer Paula Scher shares her expertise and insights in a new online course on BBC Maestro, offering aspiring graphic designers a unique opportunity to learn from a true luminary in the field.
Paula Scher, a legendary figure in the world of graphic design, has recently joined forces with BBC Maestro to offer an online course that delves into the techniques and principles essential for successful visual communication. With an impressive portfolio that includes iconic brand identities for MoMa, Coca-Cola, Disney, and Microsoft, Scher’s expertise and experience make her the perfect mentor for aspiring graphic designers.
In a recent interview, Scher discussed her passion for teaching and the unique challenges and advantages of teaching design virtually. She also provided insights into her course, highlighting its focus on broadening students’ visual understanding and appreciation for design history.
The Joy of Teaching
Scher has been teaching graphic design for several decades, both at prestigious institutions such as the School of Visual Arts (SVA) and through her own design studio. When asked about her love for teaching, Scher emphasized the satisfaction she derives from witnessing her students’ growth and improvement over time. Many of her former students have gone on to work for her, creating a strong and extended design family. Teaching in person allows her to impart her knowledge and teach students how to see, resulting in tangible progress in their work.
The Transition to Virtual Teaching
With the release of her course on BBC Maestro, Scher acknowledges the limitations of virtual teaching compared to in-person instruction. However, she emphasizes that her course should be seen as an adjunct to studying design with a present teacher. Scher aims to provide students with the knowledge and insights she wishes she had been able to share during her time as a teacher. The course offers a valuable opportunity for students to broaden their understanding of design and serves as a complementary resource to traditional classroom learning.
A Guide for Seeing
Scher’s course on BBC Maestro is designed to be a guide for seeing. It delves into design history, showcasing examples from various eras to demonstrate how contemporary design has its roots in the past. By exploring poster design, typography, style, and logos, students gain a deeper understanding of the forms that work best for different topics and how design has evolved over time. Additionally, Scher highlights three influential figures in editorial design, whose books provide invaluable insights into the field.
Case Studies and Guest Lectures
To provide students with a comprehensive learning experience, Scher includes case studies of her own projects, allowing students to see the design process from start to finish. In addition to her own lectures, Scher’s partners, Michael Gericke and Emily Oberman, contribute lectures on their respective areas of expertise: environmental graphics and animation. This multi-dimensional approach ensures that students gain insights from a variety of perspectives and specialties within the field of graphic design.
Broadening Visual Understanding
One of the key aims of Scher’s course is to broaden students’ visual understanding, especially for those who have primarily been exposed to contemporary design through platforms like Instagram. By exploring design history and referencing influential designers and their works, Scher encourages students to develop a more nuanced appreciation for design and its evolution over time. The course serves as a source of inspiration and knowledge, providing students with a well-rounded education in graphic design.
Conclusion:
Paula Scher’s BBC Maestro course offers aspiring graphic designers a unique opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s most respected and accomplished figures. Scher’s passion for teaching and her extensive experience in the field make her a valuable mentor for students at any stage of their design journey. Through her course, students can gain a deeper understanding of design principles, broaden their visual appreciation, and be inspired by the rich history of graphic design. Aspiring graphic designers would be wise to take advantage of this masterclass and learn from the best in the business.
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