FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 17, 2001 CONTACT: Cira Pascual Marquina, (515) 271-1994 Lisa Lacher, (515) 271-3119 ANDERSON GALLERY CELBRATES BOOK DESIGN Although we increasingly receive our data and entertainment digitally – whether through the Internet, e-books or PDAs – the book arts are flourishing. The printed book, it seems, is more intelligent, beautiful and vital than ever. "AIGA 50 Books/50 Covers," on view Sept. 4-30 at Drake University' s Anderson Gallery, will feature the 100 best-designed books and covers of 1999 as selected by a jury of nationally renowned and influential book designers. The winners of this annual American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) competition were chosen from nearly 1,000 entries. The opening reception for "AIGA 50 Books/50 Covers" will be held Friday, Sept. 7, from 5 to 7 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. This nationally touring exhibition opened in New York City, then traveled to Chicago and Orlando, Fla. After the Anderson Gallery venue, "AIGA 50 Books/50 Covers" will travel to Houston and Minneapolis. Since 1924, the AIGA book competition and exhibition has recognized excellence in book design and production. Categories range from trade, reference and juvenile books to university and museum publications, and include limited-edition and special-format books. "Although the intended use of the featured books varies and the designs are diverse, ranging from minimal to playful, what they all have in common is a balance between creativity and discipline," said Cira Pascual Marquina, director of the Anderson Gallery. The AIGA is the oldest and largest membership association for professionals engaged in the discipline, practice and culture of visual communication and graphic design. The AIGA was founded in 1914 and now represents over 15,000 designers through national activities and local programs developed by over 40 chapters and 80 student groups. The involvement of the Iowa Chapter of AIGA was crucial in bringing "AIGA 50 Books/50 Covers" to Des Moines. The Anderson Gallery is located in the Harmon Fine Arts Center, 25th Street and Carpenter Avenue. Gallery hours are noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. For more information about the exhibition and the gallery, call (515) 271-2268 or send an e-mail message to cira.pascual-marquina@drake.edu.