PM: An Intimate Journal for Production Managers, Art Directors..., 1937 [Lester Beall]

PM: An Intimate Journal for Production Managers, Art Directors and their Associates, Vol. IV, No. 3, November, 1937. Edited by Robert L. Leslie and Percy Seitlin. PM Publishing Co., New York. 5.375 x 7.875, pp. 64 plus trade advertising. Iconic cover design by Lester Beall. PM (later called A-D for art director) was America's leading graphic design trade journal featuring ambitious work and Modern sensibilities between 1934–42. This issue features an early and influential, (16) page printed insert devoted to (and designed by) the American pioneer of modern graphic designer, Lester Beall. A thoughtful Introduction by Charles Coiner, Art Director, N. W. Ayer & Son about the current methods of advertising design and Beall‘s contribution “... for directness and clarity of expression are the keynotes of his work. Elimination of all unnecessary details and instant understanding by the reader are very important to him.” The Lester Beall insert is illustrated with (21) black and white and one double-page spread with red work examples including: illustration, advertising, cover and interior page designs, packaging, poster, and others. With a full-page, advertisement designed by Beall for Sterling Engraving Co. of New York who also provide the plates for the insert. Additional articles unrelated to Beall are included. A good, original vintage journal with light darkening to the spine and front cover with some pencil marks to the upper left corner. A 1.5” split to the spine heel with a 3” split to the fragile black back cover. Interior pages are generally clean with a light bend to the cover corner and interior pages. Condition noted and price adjusted.