Ian Lynam is a designer, teacher, critic and historian known for his research on graphic design, typography and visual culture. He was born in the US but has worked in Japan for many years, combining Western and Japanese approaches to design.
Lynam is a partner at Ian Lynam Design, a Tokyo-based studio where he works on commercial and experimental projects in graphic design, branding, typography, and visual identity. In addition to his practice, he teaches at several universities, including Temple University Japan and Vermont College of Fine Arts, where he lectures on graphic design, visual culture, and critical theory.
His research interests include the history of graphic design, and particularly Japanese design, which he examines in the context of cultural and social transformations. Fracture: Japanese Graphic Design 1875–1975 is his most extensive study of Japanese design, revealing its evolution and the impact of global processes on the country's visual culture.
Ian Lynam is also the author of numerous articles, books and studies on graphic design, typography and the relationship between design and society. His approach to research and teaching combines academic depth with a practical focus, making his work relevant to both design practitioners and academics.
