Revealing Recording Reflecting: Graphic Women from Southwest Asia and North Africa

Since the 1950s, women designers in the SWANA region have had a shy presence in the discourses on design and visual culture—specially in comparison with their male contemporaries. In response to the growing “global” interest in discovering alternative histories beyond the renowned and predominantly Euro-centric (and male-centric) narrative, and going beyond the interest of the young generation of designers from the region in archiving and documenting regional design history, this research-based book focuses strictly on the work and stories of graphic women (graphic designers, illustrators, calligraphers, and typographers) from the region. It sets out to assemble and record, through critical writing, testimonials, primary documents, and art works, in order to help establish a foundation of women role models, and to inform the design and research community at large about the wealth and social significance of their contribution.

This book raises questions, presents raw information, and invites further research and discussions around the position of graphic women from SWANA within the context of contemporary global design histories. It is neither complete, nor objective, nor authoritative, nor does it provide neat answers to complex issues. Instead, it aims for inclusivity and does not shy away from vulnerability. The multiple narratives and the diversity of topics, voices, and works presented between the covers of this book will inspire the younger generations of graphic women regardless of their geographical or ethnic affiliations. Through new insights and authentic first-person narratives, it aims to point the historical discourse in the right direction, and to instigate further critical research that enriches the canon of studies on design and visual culture from the SWANA region.

640 p, ills colour & bw, 16 x 21 cm, hb, English