GL
George Lois
85quotes
Full Name and Common Aliases
George Lois is a renowned American graphic designer, art director, and author, known professionally as George Lois.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on May 23, 1931, in Athens, Greece, to Greek immigrant parents. He passed away peacefully at his home in New York City on November 29, 2022, at the age of 91.
Nationality and Profession(s)
George Lois is an American citizen by naturalization. Throughout his illustrious career, he has worked as a graphic designer, art director, illustrator, author, and educator.
Early Life and Background
Lois was born in Athens, Greece, to Constantine Lois, a Greek immigrant who later became a successful restaurateur in the United States. His early life was marked by a passion for drawing and creativity, which he nurtured through self-study and apprenticeships with local artists. In 1949, at the age of 18, Lois moved to the United States with his family, settling in New York City.
Major Accomplishments
Lois's remarkable career spans over six decades, during which he has made significant contributions to various fields. Some of his most notable accomplishments include:
Art Director at _Esquire_ magazine from 1962 to 1973, where he revolutionized the publication's visual identity and became known for his bold, innovative designs.
Founding partner of the design firm Vignelli Associates (now known as Vignelli & Partners) in 1971, where he collaborated with Massimo and Lella Vignelli on numerous high-profile projects.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Lois's most celebrated works include:
The famous "Esquire Is Hip" cover design featuring a portrait of Frank Sinatra in 1962.
His work for major clients such as _Time Magazine, Rolling Stone,_ and _The New York Times_, where he consistently pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling.
Impact and Legacy
Lois's influence on graphic design is undeniable. He has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including multiple Emmy Awards, a National Design Award from the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, and a lifetime achievement award from the Art Directors Club.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
George Lois's commitment to innovation, creativity, and pushing boundaries has made him a legend in the design world. His work continues to inspire generations of designers, artists, and writers, cementing his place as one of the most influential figures in modern design history.
Quotes by George Lois
George Lois's insights on:
"
When I lecture kids, I say, 'You've got to be ambitious by the advertising' - ambitious. You've got to say, 'See, this product? Maybe I can change the world with this product.' They look at me like I'm nuts, but that's what you can do.
"
Most people work at keeping their job, rather than doing a good job. If you’re the former, you’re leading a meaningless life. If you’re the latter, keep up the good work.
"
Follow your bliss. That which you love you must spend your life doing, as passionately and as perfectly as your heart, mind and instincts allow.
"
But I love that feeling of utter depletion: It is an ecstatic sense of having committed myself to the absolute limit. But after recharging at night, I’m ready to go the next morning. Isn’t that what life is all about?
"
If a man does not work passionately – even furiously – at being the best in the world at what he does, he fails his talent, his destiny, and his God.
"
You can be cautious or you can be creative (but there's no such thing as a cautious creative).
Showing 1 to 10 of 85 results