Arrest All Mimics Podcast: Ken Garland

Written by Ben Tallon

One of the UK's most revered graphic designers and creative minds of all time is arguably best known for his 'First Things First' manifesto, published in 1964. Signed by many graphic designers and artists, the purpose of the manifesto was to highlight the out-of-control consumerist society and urge creative professionals to use their talents and free time to work towards more meaningful causes that would build a better society. Books, education, anti-war efforts and charity over advertising of commercial products. 

Sadly, in 2016, Ken's efforts are more relevant than ever before as an undercurrent of hate and divisive politics gather momentum, whilst the environment, community and wellbeing are neglected.

Having studied Graphic Activism for my dissertation, leading with the FTFM, I met Ken as part of a later charity campaign, inspired by his work and created to highlight the emotional benefits of creativity on behalf of CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) and talked about his career, the manifesto, what it meant in the 1960s and what he thinks about the state of play today.

Ken Garland, now in his mid-eighties, is still very fired up and passionate about the creative industry and world issues and serves a great example of what a difference our talents can make if applied to the right causes.

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