Everything you need to know about graphic patterns

By Dom Carter
( Computer Arts )
published

The strange and surprising origins of everyday graphic patterns are explored in this new book.

Patternalia

Patternalia explores everything from polka dots to fleur-de-lis

From striped shirts to gingham tablecloths, it's fair to say that most people interact with patterns every single day without noticing them.

But hidden within these patterns are cultural associations and historical connections, all of which are explored in Patternalia (opens in new tab), the latest book by Jude Stewart (opens in new tab).

Following on from the success of her book about colour (opens in new tab), Jude has now teamed up with graphic designer Oliver Munday (opens in new tab) to plumb the backstories of individual patterns.

Covering everything from honeycombs to keffiyeh, man-made and naturally occuring graphic patterns are detailed in Patternalia. So if you've ever wondered why an Idian pattern like Paisley is named after a Scottish town, or just why polka dots are patriotic, be sure to check out this book.

Get a taste of what to expect with the images below.

Patternalia cover

Patternalia explains pattern history with eye-catching designs

Patternalia

You'll find out the association between polka dots and bikinis

Patternalia tie

New York designer Oliver Munday created the distinctive illustrations

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Dom Carter
Dom Carter

Dom Carter is a freelance writer who specialises in art and design. Formerly a staff writer for Creative Bloq, his work has also appeared on Creative Boom and in the pages of ImagineFX, Computer Arts, 3D World, and .net. He has been a D&AD New Blood judge, and has a particular interest in picture books.

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