Timeline Graphic: Icons of Design
This project challenged us to create a timeline graphic for iconic designers of the past. I was assigned Susan Kare, who is known as the woman who gave Macintosh a smile. Kare, an American artist and graphic designer, played a role in creating the iconic original Macintosh interface elements when she worked for Apple in 1983-1986.
The inspiration:
original Macintosh display courtesy of UXdesign.cc
"several windows open on Macintosh display" courtesy of UXdesign.cc
"mouse settings" courtesy of UXdesign.cc
When designing, I knew I wanted to pay homage to the iconic interface of the original Mac, as it was one of Kare's most notable projects. I chose a blocky, pixelated font and tried to replicate the appearance of a several open windows on the computer. I also created a small smiley face at the top as a nod to the Macintosh smile Kare designed.
Final Image:
Susan Kare is a significant designer who really pushed for a user friendly experience in interface design. She went on to design for Microsoft, IBM, Facebook, Pinterest and more and deserves to be celebrated for her innovation.
