Warhammer inspiration can come from unexpected places. I've worked as a graphic designer since around 2005, and that design work definitely makes its way into my Warhammer models. Here are some places I look for ideas.
One of the forerunners of modernist graphic design. I've always found the geometry, colors, and composition of his work inspiring, and it definitely informs my Warhammer work.
Wim Crouwel: Modernist
An absolutely giant book chronicling the history of typeface design. Inspiration for graphic designers and history nerds alike.
The Visual History of Type
My kids both loved this book as babies! A great reminder of the power of color.
Andy Warhol: What Colors Do You See?
Hands down my favorite design studio. See also Warp Records, Wipeout, etc.
A to Z of The Designers Republic
Another simply huge book full of all the type specimens produced by post-modernist powerhouse Emigre.
Emigre Fonts 1986–2024
If you want to rethink what Warhammer terrain could be, you need to see the work of Lebbeus Woods.
Lebbeus Woods, Architect
One of the best alternate history/post-apocalyptic/speculative fiction/space opera books I've read.
Seveneves
The first of Iain M. Banks' Culture books, which could be considered an interesting take on utopia in the context of Warhammer 40k.
Consider Phlebas
The beginning of the epic Siege of Terra series.
The Solar War
One of my favorite Warhammer books. A glimpse of the Imperium in its pre-Space Marine days.
Valdor: Birth of the Imperium
Psychogeographic journeys through the ruined city, circa the mid-2000s. Rethink the experience of contemporary life and then make art about it.
Savage Messiah
A comprehensive overview of over a hundred years of graphic design. You'll find something in here to spark that next project.
The History of Graphic Design
A new book about Roy Lichtenstein, one of my favorite pop artists.
