New Book Highlights 200 Years of Native American Graphic Design

Brian Johnson, a member of the Monacan Indian Nation, has published a new book titled "Designed to Be Red: Native & Indigenous Graphic Works" on September 15, 2023, by DelMonico Books. This publication aims to decolonize the field of graphic design by presenting over 200 years of Native American graphic works from 144 distinct nations, tribes, bands, and Indigenous cultural and language groups. The book challenges the historical narrative that positions design as solely a European development of the 1800s. The project was initiated by a request for a lecture on Native American posters from the New York City gallery Poster House, and Johnson dedicated three years to this endeavor, which he describes as a project of "cultural sovereignty." His background as a designer, curator, and partner at the design studio Polymode, combined with his Native American heritage, facilitated trust among the Native and Indigenous makers and guiding Aunties who contributed to the book. Johnson explained that the title "Designed to Be Red" plays on the colonial imposition of identity, where Native Americans were "designed" to be "red"—othered, classified, and relegated to the past. He also connects "red" to "read," emphasizing the importance of Native stories and narratives being understood and appreciated. This wordplay, he notes, is a characteristic of Native storytelling and humor, which can disarm and invite engagement. The book's scope is extensive, covering a vast historical period and a wide array of Indigenous communities, thereby offering a comprehensive and nuanced perspective on the contributions of Native peoples to graphic design. Johnson's work seeks to reclaim and reframe the history of design, ensuring that Indigenous voices and aesthetics are recognized and celebrated within the broader design discourse. The publication serves as a critical resource for understanding the visual culture of Native American communities and their enduring impact on the field of design. It aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of Indigenous creative expression across generations. The book's release is a significant step in correcting historical omissions and promoting a more inclusive understanding of design history. Johnson's personal connection to his heritage and his professional expertise converge to create a powerful and authoritative account of this underrepresented area of design.