62. Lessons from the pandemic on slow living, with Gail Anderson
- S3E62
- 51:29
- October 25th 2021
Gail Anderson is an American graphic designer, writer and educator based in New York. Famous for her typographic works, hand-lettering and poster designs, she graduated from the School of Visual Arts in 1984, where one of her teachers was Paula Scher.
She began her career as a designer at Vintage Books (part of Random House) and later The Boston Globe Sunday Magazine. She then became senior art director for Rolling Stone, where she worked for 15 years, working her way up the ladder. In 2002, she was creative director at Spot Co, a studio that specialises in advertising for the arts and entertainment sectors. Today, Gail is a co-founder of Anderson Newton Designs, which she runs with Joe Newton.
Gail has won numerous awards for her work over the years – some of which is in the permanent collections of the Cooper Hewitt National Design Museum and the Library of Congress. She's also co-author with Steven Hellar of various design books, including the recent Type Speaks. And she's come full circle, working at the School of Visual Arts in New York where she enjoys teaching the next generation of graphic designers.
Earlier this month, we chatted with Gail between lectures about what she's been up to lately. We hear more about her family, her childhood, and how the pandemic made her realise a few harsh truths. We learn of pumpkins and bears, and the real joy of having a place to call home. This is a warm and inspiring conversation with one of the biggest yet most humble names in graphic design today.
Season Three of The Creative Boom Podcast is kindly sponsored by Capture One.
The Creative Boom Podcast
Join host Katy Cowan on The Creative Boom Podcast, where candid chats with fellow creatives offer fresh perspectives, expert advice, and a shared understanding of the challenges we all face. Whether seeking inspiration or practical tips, this show brings warmth, insight, and connection to your creative journey. Come for the stories, stay for the friendly vibes, and leave feeling empowered to shape a fulfilling, sustainable career.
Meet the Host
Katy is the founding editor of Creative Boom, an online magazine, podcast, and community that celebrates and supports creatives worldwide.
With over 25 years of experience in media, PR, and marketing communications, she began her career in broadcast journalism in 2000 before transitioning into public relations. In 2007, she co-founded Boomerang, a digital communications consultancy based in Manchester, working with clients such as the BBC, TATA Group, and Manchester City Football Club.
In 2009, Katy launched Creative Boom to support struggling creatives. It has since grown into a leading platform that reaches over one million creative professionals each month. The platform has partnered with brands like Google, Microsoft, Adobe, Canon, and Wix to deliver impactful campaigns tailored to the creative community.
Today, Katy focuses entirely on Creative Boom, dedicated to empowering and uplifting artists and designers worldwide. Her passion for supporting creatives is at the heart of everything she does.