While researching for my Australian Icons article, I came across Symbols Of Australia by Mimmo Cozzolino and Fysh Rutherford— a collection of Australian trademarks and commercial art from the past 150 years. It’s a stunning book, and as far as I know, the only one of it’s kind.
Australia is really starting to make waves on the international design scene, but this book reveals what a rich and long design history we have. It tracks the evolution of intricate, turn of the century woodblock logos, to the beginning of the more stylized trademarks of the 50’s and 60’s. There are samples of icons designed for boomerang manufacturers, illustrations from assorted tonics and medicines, football mascots and mastheads from long forgotten newsletters. It’s an absolutely fascinating collection, essential for Australian designers and anyone interested in Australian history.
The book is now in it’s 30th year, and Mimmo is planning not only a second volume, but an all new collection of trademarks and icons from the 1960’s to the present day. There is also an ongoing call for anyone with graphics that they can contribute to these new editions, so if this is you be sure to get in touch, and if you haven’t already order a copy of the book.
Highly recommended.
Symbols Of Australia
Mimmo Cozzolino
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