Lillian Bassman Magazine Spread
This magazine spread is a short biography about Lillian Bassman, a fashion photographer and graphic designer. The images used are photographs taken by Bassman, as well as a portrait of her. Each image has been edited together to highlight her style and paired with copy I’ve written to compliment her unique skills. The layout takes inspiration from the style of Harper's Bazaar, but has been stylized to fit modern times.
Meaning & Inspiration
During my studies, we were assigned an infographic poster assignment. We were given a list of graphic designers throughout history to choose from, and as soon as I saw Lillian Bassman’s work I was enamored with her abilities to capture such soft beauty with such sharp, dynamic contrast.
While this isn’t the original assignment, I wanted to create something inspired by Bassman’s work that could honor her legacy. In my design, I emulated the style of Harper’s Bazaar during the time Bassman photographed, designed, and art directed. I juxtaposed blocky chunks of text with softened, delicate images as a way to play with the reader’s eye and imitate the drama Bassman created in the dark room with her own images.
Lillian Bassman was known for her creative and expressive style and had a unique ability to capture and evoke emotions through her work. She continues to inspire me daily and I aspire to create work that evokes emotions and tells stories in the way she so effortlessly did.