Graphic Design

This guide is intended to help you research topics in the field of graphic design which includes a wide range of visual works—including advertising, packaging, branding, printed matter (stamps, posters, stationary), typography, and layout.

Using the tabs at the top of the Research Guide, locate the specific type of resource you are looking for. Use the tab for Image Resources to find links for many online sources for images to use in research, or for production of graphic projects.

Anni Albers, Orange Meander, 1970. Image from Museum of Arts and Design, New York.

1. Develop your research topic.

What is the topic that you want to research? What are the key concepts?  Can you broaden or narrow your focus? Consider focusing on one or more of the following:

• time period
• place
• specific event   
• specific people

Does your topic overlap other subject areas such as anthropology, geography or political science?

2. List at least 3 questions that you need to explore.

Think about the history of your topic, and its categories. Who are the key people? What did they do? Why did it happen?

3. Under each question, think about the following aspects:

• What do you already know about your topic or issue?
• What do you need to learn to better understand your topic or issue?
• What kind of information resource might provide the answer to these questions?

4. Consider your audience.

• Who will read your paper?
• Why will it be of interest to them?
• What will be new to them?

Visit the Citation Guide for help with creating citations in MLA or APA formats, annotated bibliographies, and general guidance on formatting academic papers.

Many art historians use Chicago Style for bibliographies. Visit the Chicago Manual of Style Online for guidance.