It seems like Phaidon just can't go wrong with their curated collections; this large volume of recent contemporary graphics seems to call for some serious sit-down-and-absorb-everything kind of time.

Area_2 is the second volume in the graphics version of Phaidon's award-winning series of curated compendiums, which includes Cream, Fresh Cream, Blink, 10x10, 10x10_2, and Spoon. Covering all manifestations of printed graphics created by the world's most visionary designers, Area_2 presents the posters, books, magazines, typography, packaging, and ephemera that has influenced visual culture over the past five years.

• An international, up-to-the-minute overview of graphic design today
• 100 of the most creative designers to have emerged on the international scene over the past five years, chosen by 10 of the most respected figures in the field
• More than 1500 full-color images showcasing the best of contemporary graphics, from posters to books to typefaces and beyond
• An indispensable reference not only for students and graphic designers, but also for anyone interested in the visual trends shaping our culture

$90.00, Buy it here or for $56.70, here.

[posted by katie]