David Carson

David Carson was born September 8th, 1954. He was an American graphic designer and art director. He is best know for his innovative magazine design, and use of experimental typography. He was the art director for the magazine Ray Gun, in which he employed much of the typographic and layout style for which he is known. In particular, his widely imitate aesthetic defined the so-called "grunge typography"

The designs of David Carson are extreme compared to other magazines. Other magazines, such as Kerrang! and Q, all follow the usual design of a magazine (Masthead at the top, mid-shot of a person in the middle, snippets or sell lines of information down each side). 

David Carson however doesn't fit with this trend. Carson creates magazines that go against the trend and make people express an opinion because of this.

My opinion on his work is that it is original and almost abstract. Each issue is completely different, almost making it a one of a kind magazine for each issue. Carson doesn't stick to the rules when it comes to a magazine layout and this means you get a different look to the magazine every time.

 

Some of the things that Carson has made different about his magazines are:

That Carson hasn't put the masthead of 'Raygun' on every magazine. Magazines put the same masthead on the top of the magazine so buyers and readers can recognise the magazine. Carson, however, has put different titles at the top of some of his magazines, e.g. blue.

Another part of these magazines which make them different to typical magazines is that this person on the front of 'blue' is sideways with their face not being visible. This is different as a usual magazine contains on the front a mid-shot, long-shot or close up of the artist normally facing forwards.

Lastly, with 'blue' there are no snippets or sell lines down the side. This can make it difficult for readers when they want to know what's inside of the magazine and don't have time to flick through.

Overall, my opinion of David Carson's work on these magazines is that he has created a new genre of magazine, one that doesn't stick to the rules and therefore creates a creative and interesting magazine from the front. Even though a magazine like this wouldn't do so well when selling due to the layout of the magazine, I love the contrast 'Raygun' has to other magazines.