The World's Best Selling Creative Magazine (Computer Arts - Magazine)

Member Name: JJJJ

Product:	Computer Arts - Magazine
Date:	09/02/09 (125 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Informative, Well Laid-Out

Disadvantages: Lots of adverts throughout the pages

Computer Arts is a colourful and beautifully laid-out magazine relating to the ever changing world of creative design.

Costing £6 and released monthly, the publication begins with a section called 'Exposure' which showcases new illustrative talents. As a designer, I often gain inspiration from these pages, and flicking through this section can be a good antidote to a creative block.

Like many magazines, the Letters pages give readers the chance to write in and express their views on a range of design related subjects. There is a prize for the best entry, which generally consists of a moderately expensive item linked to the field of new media - a camera, or some editing software for example.

The News section runs through the worldwide design-based events which have occurred since the last issue - in the edition I have in front of me, the focus is on 'Secret Wars' - the illustrative version of a live MC battle which takes place between two graffiti artists.

Computer Arts always features a series of tutorials which help the reader gain experience in Photoshop, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, and a selection of other design based computer programmes. I have found this section to be really helpful in the past, and it has allowed me to extend my creative skills and stay ahead of the game. The magazines also comes with a CD full of video tutorials and demo software to try.

The end section of the publication reviews a range of products including design books, software, computers, monitors, printers and a range of other new media related peripherals. The reviews are of a high standard, although they can be a little short.

The magazine as a whole is well arranged and always eye catching - in fact, the only bits that don't look so good, are the numerous independent adverts which are quite prevalent throughout the pages.

Computer Arts is an excellent Magazine which all budding designers should take a look at. Personally, it keeps me up to date with what's going on in the ever changing world of design, which is a must, as many clients often want a contemporary feel to their commissions. Highly Recommended.

Summary: Excellent Design Magazine