Art directors and design studio founders share their memories of 2021.

Contents:

We reached out to ten graphic design experts to find out their opinions on the most significant events and trends of the outgoing year. They shared their observations on what made this year unique and memorable for the industry. These insights can help better understand current trends in graphic design and their impact on the future.

Reviewing the year is an important process for analyzing the achievement of goals and evaluating results. This is a time when organizations, companies, and individuals consider their successes and failures, identify strengths and weaknesses, and plan next steps. Reviewing the year helps understand what went right and what needs improvement, which in turn facilitates more effective planning for the coming year. It's also a good time to pay attention to key trends and changes that may impact future activities. Summing up the year is not only a reflection, but also an opportunity to set new ambitious goals.

• Gayane Baghdasaryan ― shares thoughts on exclusive fonts;
• Petr Bankov ― shows personal design discoveries;
• Alexander Vasin ― talks about the big losses of the year;
• Maria Doreuli ― talks about individuality in typography;
• Alexander Kovalsky ― shares observations on NFT;
• Vladimir Lifanov ― shows the best branding of the year;
• Yaroslav Rassadin ― observes a return to minimalism;
• Eva Sviridova ― foresees a shift to metaworlds;
• Katya Shashina ― discusses the new reality for designer;
• Yuri Vetrov ― shares in detail what is happening in UX.

The founder of the Brownfox font studio is a key figure in the world of typography. She has created unique fonts that have received recognition among both designers and a wide range of users. Brownfox typeface studio focuses on developing original, high-quality typefaces that meet the contemporary demands of design and visual communication. Through an innovative approach and attention to detail, the studio successfully combines aesthetics and functionality, offering fonts for a variety of projects, from web design to print. The founder is also actively involved in educational initiatives, sharing her knowledge and experience with new generations of designers.

This past year, I've also been interested in learning about exciting and unexpected projects in the fields of design and typography. Currently, I've noticed quantitative rather than qualitative changes. The number of new typefaces continues to grow, but new conceptual statements and ideas are becoming fewer. It is important to pay attention to how typography is developing and what innovations may appear in the future.

In recent years, we have seen the active development of exclusive fonts (custom fonts) both in Russia and abroad. This trend was predictable, but, unfortunately, I am not thrilled with it. Custom fonts create their own niche in the industry, but, as a rule, they are inferior in quality to non-exclusive retail fonts. The font development process requires time and creativity and should not be subject to pressure, be it time constraints or ideological guidelines. Fonts that become icons of the times and set visual trends are most often retail fonts. In our work, we focus on such fonts, as this allows us to make meaningful and expressive statements in the field of design and typography.

Companies should not rush to follow fashion trends, commissioning exclusive fonts simply for their uniqueness. In most cases, this leads to unnecessary expenses. A much more rational solution is licensing an existing font, which allows you to save money while maintaining a high-quality brand visual style. Choosing the right font plays a vital role in shaping a corporate identity and improving communication. Exclusive fonts make sense for large corporations when the cost of licensing is comparable to the cost of custom development. Even the largest companies sometimes prefer to purchase expensive licenses for existing fonts, striving for a certain style and uniqueness. The risk associated with creating a custom font always remains, and no one can accurately predict the result. The process of font creation is a kind of art with an element of surprise. There is no guarantee that this "miracle" will occur on time and within the specified conditions. However, it is precisely such unique solutions that become important in the history of visual culture and influence its future development.

A poster artist and teacher at Bankov Posters School, co-founder of the DesignDepot studio and the graphic design magazine [kAk], is an expert in the field of visual communication. His work and teaching are aimed at developing modern approaches to graphic design and poster art. Using unique methods and practical experience, he inspires students and professionals to create original and expressive visual solutions.

The past year hasn't seen many significant discoveries, although that depends on how you look at it. However, my love for the French type designer Benoît Baudoin remains strong. Besides Benoît, I also discovered Syndicate and Sarah-Christine Moser—they became important to me this year. Unfortunately, this year was also marked by a loss: the outstanding designer Michel Quarez passed away.

The atmosphere of the winter holidays still reigns in Prague. The air is thick with the scent of fireplace smoke, fragrant meats are grilled in the streets, and residents and tourists alike enjoy hot mulled wine. Holiday-inspired music is everywhere, creating a special atmosphere. This time of year attracts crowds eager to experience the magic of Christmas in Prague.

The head of the Groza.design studio, the Typomania School online school and the Typomania festival is an expert in the field of design and typography. Groza.design studio offers professional services in the field of graphic design, creating unique visual solutions for clients. Typomania School provides educational programs dedicated to typography and design, helping students develop skills and find their calling in this field. The Typomania Festival brings together typography professionals and enthusiasts, facilitating the exchange of experiences and ideas. These projects highlight a commitment to quality and innovation in the world of design.

I'm sure each of us has our own personal and social achievements to share with colleagues. However, I'd prefer to focus on a more serious topic and reflect on the losses we've experienced this year.

In 2021, the design world lost several outstanding figures, among whom Alexander Borisovich Konoplev stands out. He passed away at the age of 79, leaving behind a significant legacy. Konoplev was not only a talented book designer but also an artist and teacher, whose knowledge and experience became the foundation for many contemporary designers. His influence on design education and practice cannot be overestimated, and he became a symbol of an entire era in the world of art and design.

Elena Alexandrovna Trofimova, a talented book artist, illustrator, and outstanding teacher, has died at the age of 77. Despite the lack of formal teaching in educational institutions, her apartment on Begovaya became a magnet for many young people. Today, among them are renowned designers and artists who learned about composition, style, and taste from Elena. Her influence on the creative development of dozens, if not hundreds, cannot be overstated. Elena Trofimova left a bright mark on the world of art, inspiring a new generation of creators.

This year, Vladimir Chaika, a man who left a significant mark on the world of design, passed away at the age of 67. Young people may not know him or have only a vague idea, as he didn't use social media for self-promotion. However, in the 1990s, he was a true star. Chaika demonstrated that design could be not only commercial but also personal expression. His works were unique graphic statements imbued with profound meaning. Without his influence, the design world would hardly look as we know it today. His contribution to the development of the art of design remains significant and inspires new generations of creators.

Today we mourn the loss of Denis Masharov. He was an outstanding typeface designer and talented lecturer who left a significant mark on the world of graphic design. Denis had a keen mind and deep knowledge, which made his presentations especially memorable. His lectures are available online and are a valuable resource for anyone interested in design and typography. We recommend checking out his work to better understand his unique approach and design philosophy.

I hope that this list will remain unchanged in the near future.

Font designer, founder and creative director of the independent studio Contrast Foundry, which specializes in the development of unique fonts. Our studio offers a wide range of high-quality fonts that are suitable for various design projects. We strive for innovation and quality in every typeface we create to meet the needs of designers and creative professionals worldwide.

It's exciting to see how major brands and tech companies are beginning to recognize the importance of individuality in typography. Character is emerging from a neutral approach, replacing rigidity with warmth. This trend underscores the desire for uniqueness and emotional connection with the audience. I'm confident this is just the beginning of design changes that will contribute to the creation of more attractive and memorable visual identities.

Founder and art director of the CreativePeople agency. In our company, we focus on creating unique design solutions that help brands stand out in the market. We combine creativity and strategic thinking to achieve maximum impact in every project. Our team of professionals is ready to bring your boldest ideas to life, ensuring your visual communications are not only beautiful but also effective.

This year, NFT technology has become a clear breakthrough in design. Previously, CGI artists and illustrators took a backseat to UX/UI specialists, but now their work, which straddles the intersection of art and design, has once again become relevant and in demand. This creates a need for many to understand new trends, learn, and try their hand at this field.

UX/UI design is currently undergoing significant changes associated with zero-code, no-code, and low-code approaches. These new methodologies allow designers to become multidisciplinary specialists, enabling them to deliver turnkey projects, as was popular in the early 2000s. As a result, designers can now not only create visual interfaces, but also actively participate in the development of functionality, which significantly expands their capabilities and increases the value of their work in the market.

The founder of the Suprematika agency, known in the field of digital marketing and web design, has extensive experience in creating effective strategies to increase brand visibility in the online space. Suprematika Agency specializes in developing customized solutions that help clients achieve their business goals and increase conversions. We offer a wide range of services, including SEO optimization, content marketing, and unique website creation. Our team of professionals is committed to continuous improvement and uses cutting-edge technologies to achieve the best results for our clients.

As a branding specialist, I want to highlight an important project of the year – the Burger King rebranding. This project, although predictable, was executed at a high level. Within the context of the brand, all the design elements are harmoniously combined, and although there are no radical changes, the visual aesthetics are impressive. The main emphasis is on the Cooper typeface, which brings notes of classic retro, creating a warm atmosphere. The signature typeface truly becomes the central element, complemented by high-quality illustrations and stylish media. This rebranding demonstrates how important every detail is in creating a memorable and attractive brand visual image.

This certainly indicates that the direction chosen several years ago regarding fonts as new logos has confidently entered the mainstream. We are seeing the emergence of many new and interesting fonts. It is especially gratifying that bright and festive identities are being created for companies seeking to appeal to a wide audience. For example, a year ago, Burger King had an equally impressive Moldy Whopper project, which generated a lot of discussion. This evokes both envy and admiration.

Industrial designer, art director and consultant with experience in various industries. My website is rassadin.com, where you can get acquainted with my projects and services. I specialize in developing innovative solutions in the field of industrial design, creating functional and aesthetically attractive products. My goal is Help businesses realize their ideas and increase their competitiveness in the market.

The main trend is the deep integration of design practices into everyday life. Design has become an integral part of various spheres, encompassing not only brands and companies, but also libraries, coffee shops, clubs, music groups, and many others. High-quality design is essential for creating a unique image and attracting attention. The absence of a professional designer in any project may indicate its ineffectiveness or outdated nature. In the modern world, where visual communication plays a key role, design is becoming the key to successful interaction with the audience and creating a positive impression.

This trend, which can be called a change of era, is manifested not only in scientific and technological changes, but also in aesthetics. Even minimalism, such as in Bauhaus or iPhone design, is significantly more difficult to implement than creating baroque chairs or traditional pieces. This is due to the fact that minimalism requires high concentration, and any mistake can ruin the harmony of the entire piece. Thus, contemporary design is becoming more complex, as it requires meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of functionality and aesthetics.

The design world has undergone many changes over the past century. We have seen the transition from Art Nouveau and American Airstream trailers to the techno and biodesign of the 1980s. Today, in my opinion, we are on the threshold of a new, amazing period. It can be called "simple at its core, complex in its nuances." This approach to design represents true complexity. There is no play of forms here, and, at its core, we are talking about simple things. However, every detail is thought out in terms of its interaction with other elements. This is reminiscent of John Cage's minimalism, which is evident in his visual aesthetics. This style requires a high degree of integrity in both thought and perception. I sincerely hope that in the future we will see even more beauty and harmony in design.

The founder of the 3D design studio SXEMA is an expert in the field of visualization and creation of 3D models. His experience and creative approach allow the company to develop unique solutions for various projects. SXEMA Studio offers a wide range of services, including 3D modeling, animation, and interior visualization, making it a reliable partner for businesses in the design and architecture industries. The founder actively implements innovative technologies and stays abreast of the latest trends in 3D design, contributing to the studio's successful development and client satisfaction.

This year, a key trend has been the growing interest in virtual worlds. Amidst global overpopulation and resource scarcity, many are finding solace and new opportunities in digital spaces. Wealthy individuals enjoy affordable travel and new experiences, while others seek thrills in computer games and the film industry. Technological advances and the effects of the pandemic have only accelerated this process, and the trend of living in metaverses will continue to gain popularity. In these spaces, users can create unique worlds, transform their identities, and realize their creative ideas, fostering self-expression and new forms of interaction.

Digital clothing is actively entering our lives, becoming an integral part of the modern world of fashion and technology. This new trend combines elements of virtual reality and digital design, offering unique solutions for self-expression. Digital clothing allows users to experiment with their look, creating virtual outfits that can be shared across social media and gaming platforms. With the rapid development of technology, digital clothing opens up new horizons for creativity and individuality, changing the perception of the fashion industry.

Virtual fittings open up new horizons for fashion, allowing users to try on clothes from brands such as Balenciaga for a small fee or even for free. This offers an opportunity to experience the world of luxury, reminiscent of the replica market or T-shirts with the Gucci logo. Augmented reality (AR) technology is becoming an alternative to fast fashion, offering a more sustainable approach to fashion.

For designers, AR offers unique opportunities: by creating garments in 3D, they can significantly reduce costs and time, eliminating the need to sew unnecessary samples. This contributes to sustainable development in the fashion industry. Furthermore, AR allows designers to express themselves by breaking traditional laws of physics and opening up new creative horizons. With the development of technologies for virtual worlds, we can expect further growth and popularity of such solutions.

Art director at kateshash.com, curator of the Moscow branch of Ladies, Wine & Design, and host of the podcast of the same name. I am a speaker and mentor, sharing my experience and knowledge in the fields of design and creativity.

It's wonderful to see designers becoming more mindful of their time and the value of their work. Every day, they increasingly realize that being overwhelmed by projects and constantly rushing to meet deadlines doesn't contribute to the quality of their work. More and more professionals are devoting time to their hobbies, loved ones, and personal development. In the past, designers often served as simple performers, focused on fulfilling client requirements. However, with the development of software and technologies that automate routine processes, designers are transforming into mini-art directors. Now, they don't simply carry out assignments; they carefully consider every detail of their work, while artificial intelligence handles many technical aspects. This evolution allows designers to focus on the creativity and uniqueness of their projects, which ultimately improves the quality of their work and client satisfaction.

Recently, there has been a steady trend toward online learning. More and more people are choosing to avoid traditional higher education and instead acquire the necessary skills step by step. Completing a full four-year bachelor's degree is no longer required to enter the profession. A solid knowledge base and practical experience, which can be supplemented with specialized courses, are sufficient. This approach to learning allows you to quickly adapt to changing labor market demands and effectively develop your career.

Despite the obvious disadvantages of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has opened up new opportunities for remote work. Today, you can work not only from a cozy office in Berlin, but also from exotic Bali. This trend is becoming the new norm for design teams. While it was previously believed that designers are more productive in an office setting, many companies are now giving their employees the freedom to choose their work location. This is a positive change, as for some people, being in a group setting where they can better focus and share ideas is important. However, there are also days when working from home, in comfortable clothes and with a beloved pet, is more beneficial. It's great to see that employers have started to embrace hybrid work models, which helps find optimal workflows and improve overall team productivity.

The Brand and Design Director at Raiffeisenbank, who previously worked at Mail.ru Group, shares his knowledge and experience in product design. He maintains a blog dedicated to current design topics and also teaches a course on design management, where he teaches the fundamentals of design management and its integration into business processes.

In recent years, I have been carefully analyzing product design trends for the current and next year in my digest. However, in 2021, I focused on completing a book and completely reworking the design management course, which is already nearing completion. In this review, I will present predictions for next year and highlight the key events of the past year.

This year, special attention should be paid to the material from EditorX, which for the second year in a row has offered an up-to-date analysis of key trends in visual and interactive design. In 2022, one notable trend has been the continued popularity of the aesthetics of the early 2000s, known as Y2K. This trend is already actively manifesting itself not only in fashion, but also in other areas of design, including graphics and web design. It's important to consider these changes to stay relevant and offer users fresh, modern solutions. UXTools conducted an annual study of the most popular interface design tools. Figma continues to dominate the market, while Sketch and InVision are declining in popularity. The competition between Miro and FigJam is interesting, although Figma has a weaker chance in this area. Furthermore, Figma and other tools are beginning to focus more on UX research functionality, which may impact their further development and demand among designers. UX Collective magazine annually analyzes important events in the field of interface design. They review numerous publications throughout the year and highlight key trends and tendencies that impact the profession. Sydney Alcantara presented an in-depth overview of trends in the basic design of popular operating systems: Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. This article explores how and why these platforms are shifting to outline icons that better align with the primary font, while also considering custom themeing and modern color palettes like LCH. Softer curves, responsive typography, and other important details that help create an aesthetically pleasing and functional interface are also discussed.

I've been saddened by the growing popularity of OOUX (object-oriented UX), which resembles outdated interface design methods like class diagrams and UML. A fundamental rule in our profession is to focus on user needs and their mental models, not the internal structure of a system. The system should adapt and change according to how best to organize use cases and navigation. At the same time, the requirements for the object structure should be flexible and not restrict creative design.

The connection between NFTs and metaverses is becoming clear, having a significant impact not only on visual trends but also on the market as a whole, as well as on the careers of designers. A growing number of people have actively participated in these innovations from the very beginning, and many have focused their efforts entirely or partially on this area. The emergence of NFTs opens new horizons for creativity and commerce, making them an essential element of modern digital art and design. This trend not only generates demand for unique digital assets but also sets new standards for industry professionals.

Debriefing is an important stage in any process. It allows you to evaluate the results achieved, identify strengths and weaknesses, and outline paths for further development. In this context, debriefing can cover various aspects, including analyzing completed tasks, assessing team performance, and identifying key lessons for future projects. Such analysis helps not only improve current processes but also create a strategy for achieving greater results in the future. Summarizing also helps to create a culture of openness and feedback, which is an essential element for the success of any organization.

• The best book covers from AIGA,
• Notable innovations from Fast Company and Popular Science,
• Bright projects on Readymag,
• The most popular emojis.

In 2022, many materials were published, covering various topics and fields of knowledge. This year became an important stage in the development of information technology, science, and culture. Scientific research, new discoveries, and advances in medicine and ecology attracted particular attention. In addition, 2022 saw an increase in interest in sustainable development and environmental initiatives, which was reflected in publications on this topic.

Social media and their influence on public opinion also became a topic of discussion, with an emphasis on the role of information in shaping people's attitudes and behavior. English: It is important to note that in 2022, digital platforms continued to develop, providing new opportunities for the exchange of knowledge and experience.

Thus, 2022 has become a time of significant change and growth in various fields, which is reflected in the extensive database of materials available for study and analysis.

• General design trends are highlighted by 99 Designs, Webflow, Graphic Mama and Depositphotos.
• Pantone and Shutterstock announce colors: both converge on purple.
• Professional from InVision.
• General from Fjord.
• Technological from Gartner: hype curve, strategic and influence radar.

I am glad that recently trend reviews have become less hackneyed and banal solutions such as “animation”, “large typography” or “background videos”, which have long dominated this niche. I typically select only high-quality and relevant materials, and such clichés can still be found in less serious sources. However, the absence of these formulaic approaches is a pleasant surprise and opens up space for new ideas and creative design solutions.

Early next month, CES 2022 will take place, where the latest technological developments will traditionally be presented. This event sets the tone for the entire year, filling it with fresh ideas and innovations. I plan to complete a book and a course, which will allow me to more closely follow all the latest developments and trends in the tech world.

Let's compare the promises made for 2021, 2020, 2019, and 2018. This analysis will help us understand how well the plans were fulfilled and how priorities have changed over these years. We will look at the key points announced in each of these years and evaluate their actual implementation. By analyzing data, we can identify trends and areas that have been most significant for development.

Summarizing the year is an important process that helps us evaluate our achievements and results. Throughout the year, we faced various challenges and successfully overcame them. By analyzing key events and achievements, we can identify strengths and areas for improvement. Year-end summaries allow us not only to evaluate the work accomplished but also to outline plans for the future. It's important to note that our results reflect the efforts of the entire team, and every contribution matters. As we summarize, we can be inspired by our successes and use the lessons learned for further growth and development.

• Five Russian design projects — winners of international competitions
• The outgoing 2021 and the upcoming 2022 from designers — in pictures!
• Ten original gifts for a designer