By Tuyen Lam
Here’s a fun challenge:
Do you know who first defined the term “Graphic Design”?
Do you know who first defined the term “Graphic Design”?
If you work in the creative industry, this is one piece of history worth knowing!
The answer is William Addison Dwiggins—a remarkable American designer who was born in 1880 and passed away in 1956. He wasn’t just a skilled designer—he was the first person to officially introduce and define the phrase “graphic design” in 1922.
The answer is William Addison Dwiggins—a remarkable American designer who was born in 1880 and passed away in 1956. He wasn’t just a skilled designer—he was the first person to officially introduce and define the phrase “graphic design” in 1922.
Let’s take a closer look at the man who helped shape the world of modern design.
Who Was William Addison Dwiggins?
Dwiggins studied illustration at the Frank Holme School of Illustration in Chicago. After graduating, he built a successful career as a freelance designer—one who didn’t limit himself to a single discipline. He explored everything from illustration to type design, lettering, and graphic layout.
It was exactly this multi-disciplinary approach that allowed him to make such a broad and lasting impact on the creative industry in the early 20th century.
His Legacy in Typography and Calligraphy
One of Dwiggins’ most notable strengths was his deep understanding of typography and calligraphy. His work stood out not just for its aesthetic quality but for its precision and originality in letterform design.
His influence can still be seen today in modern typefaces and layout practices. He helped push boundaries, allowing graphic design to evolve into a respected profession that combines art, communication, and strategy.
A Pioneer in Book Design
Beyond graphics and typography, Dwiggins also made significant contributions to the world of book design and publishing. With his strong grasp of layout principles and attention to visual rhythm, he produced books and magazines that were both functional and visually compelling.
Many of his publications became bestsellers—not just because of the content, but because of how beautifully they were designed.
Why He Matters Today
William Addison Dwiggins wasn’t just a designer—he was a visionary. His decision to label and define “graphic design” helped create a shared language for what we do today. He paved the way for future generations of designers to be seen as professionals and problem-solvers, not just decorators.
His career reminds us of the value of versatility, curiosity, and craftsmanship. And for anyone working in design, knowing his name and contributions is a nod of respect to the roots of our industry.