Communication Arts magazine celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year. The first issue of the beloved trade publication for graphic design professionals premiered in August 1959. The cover of the first issue (seen above) was designed by Lloyd Pierce. Freeman Craw (a recipient of the 1988 TDC medal) designed the CA logo, which has since evolved over the years.

“…Thinking back, it’s hard to believe how fast things have happened, how much this business has changed since 1958 when we were planning the magazine. Only ten commercials were excepted for the New York Art Director’s show that year. Videotape had just been introduced. The Volkswagen campaign hadn’t happened yet. Most of the graphic design you saw was panels, shapes and Mondrian patterns…”

– founder Dick Coyne, excerpt from Patrick Coyne’s feature Communication Arts at 50 in the March/April 2009 issue

The 50th Anniversary issue of the magazine is on newstands now. It is packed with pages of inspiration and interviews, the fascinating history on how the magazine started with two passionate designers, reflections on the past, and outlooks for the future. One of the highlights is a visual timeline of design icons during the magazine’s 50 year legacy.