Where Would the Button Be Without the Button Hole? - by George Tscherny (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

This book is about designs born of necessity; often spontaneously, always pragmatically. It is also about the particular sensibility of graphic designer George Tscherny and his ability to find beauty or art in the most ordinary things, and to communicate this appreciation to others. Experience his infectious enthusiasm for what could be called "anonymous", "ad hoc", or "vernacular" design; for objects that have an aesthetic appeal in spite of themselves; for creations that are both ingenious and ingenuous. Tscherny heavily illustrates the book with items from his personal collection, analyzing everything from the folding lunch box, to the vintage re-closeable bottle, to the artlessly fashioned paper clip, safety pin and wire hanger. These are just a sampling of the many objects he has collected. This book gives the reader a glimpse into his world. George Tscherny began his professional career as a graphic designer in New York in 1950. He served two terms as president of the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA). In 1997, he was inducted into the New York Art Directors Hall of Fame. A comprehensive selection of his work is included in the Graphic Design Archives at RIT.

Review Quotes

George Tscherny has the eye of a hawk when it comes to finding design in the world both man-made and natural. After viewing this collection, I feel I have just been given a strong pair of glasses and now I too can see. -- Steve Heller, author I find the examples in George Tscherny's new book immensely cheerful. His impeccable eye has isolated a selection of brilliant objects perfectly suited to their task and beautiful as well. The book is a marvelous tribute to a world of anonymous designers and to George himself. -- Milton Glaser, designer The best designs are always the ones that are based on ideas. These are the designs that are remembered and become beautiful because they have proven to perform and to communicate. George Tscherny, like all great designers, recognizes those direct, simple, yet extraordinary effort and outpourings by designers and non-designers that cross his path and, to the delight of all, collects them. -- Ivan Chermayeff, designer This charming book highlights the pleasure of the 'aha!'--the moment when design lovers recognize the beauty, cleverness, and even perfection of so many humble objects. -- Julie Lasky, editor-in-chief, I.D. Magazine