Scratching the Surface 03. Steven Heller
Nov 10, 2016
In this conversation with Steven Heller, a legendary design writer and historian, listeners explore his unconventional journey from underground newspapers to a prolific publishing career. Heller argues that many publications don’t require graphic design critics, viewing design primarily as a service industry. He shares insights into his writing process, emphasizing the importance of imagery and audience adaptation, while reflecting on the generational shifts in visual culture. Heller also discusses the need for daily writing discipline and his passion for fostering design discourse.
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History Is His Lens
- Heller wanted to be a historian and uses cultural history as his entry point into writing about visual culture.
- He believes contextualizing design within politics and culture is his main contribution as a writer.
Let Editors Shape Your Language
- Tailor language to the publication and rely on editors to remove jargon.
- Learn to revise multiple drafts until the words fit the audience and the editor's expectations.
Write Fast, Then Let Editors Finish
- Obituaries and fast pieces require quick drafting and collaboration with editors.
- Expect to hand over drafts that editors may rewrite to match the publication's voice.
