Design, psychology and knocking you on your ass

http://99percentinvisible.org/

One of my new design discoveries is the blog/podcast 99% Invisible, "a tiny radio show about design, architecture & the 99% invisible activity that shapes our world."

99% may think itself tiny but it consistently packs a ton of smart insights into each post and show.  

Case in point is "Episode 101: Cover Story," which examines the psychology, the art and gut instinct behind the design of mass-market periodicals. Rather than a driveby look at today's trends, 99% delivers a fascinating look back at the roots and evolutions of cover design from mid-20th century to today.

Of particular note is a section on how the psychology behind impulse buying began to play greater roles in magazine design, among them most prominently the iconic Esquire covers of designer George Lois.

"When you look at a magazine from 20 feet away, it should knock you on your ass," Lois said in describing a design philosophy as relevant now as it was 50 years ago.

So, next time you peruse a newsstand, you might want to cherish the silent symphony at play in front of you. Even in a dying industry, there's a visual magic that remains hard to replicate online.