GoKawiilNew book documents 200 years of Native American graphic design history
Brian Johnson, a member of the Monacan Indian Nation, has published 'Designed to Be Red: Native & Indigenous Graphic Works' through DelMonico Books on September 15. The book compiles over two centuries of graphic design work created by artists from 144 distinct Native American nations, tribes, and Indigenous groups.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Design history has long centered European origins, sidelining contributions from other cultures and traditions. This book challenges that narrow framework by documenting a rich, continuous lineage of Native graphic work, pushing the design field toward a more accurate and inclusive account of its own history.
- Book spans 200+ years of Native American graphic design work
- Features contributions from 144 distinct nations, tribes, and Indigenous groups
- Challenges the Eurocentric narrative that design originated in 1800s Europe
Designed to Be Red: Native & Indigenous Graphic Works' by Brian Johnson — This is the book the article is about — Brian Johnson's survey of Native and Indigenous graphic works spanning two centuries and hundreds of nations and cultural groups. It's a gorgeous addition to any designer's shelf and a genuine corrective to the Eurocentric story of graphic design history.
See Designed to Be Red: Native & Indigenous Graphic Works' by Brian Johnson on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: fastcompany.com, 2026-08-27
Published there as: “The long and beautiful story of Native American graphic design”
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