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Books

This month’s selection highlights Nike’s design legacy and a survey of the best in contemporary drawings from artists the world over

Vitamin D3: Today’s Best in Contemporary Drawing

Conceived and edited by Phaidon editors

Following the success of Vitamin D in 2005 and Vitamin D2 in 2013, Phaidon’s editors continue to explore the evolving possibilities of drawing from a contemporary lens – a medium that has been elevated to sit alongside painting as a central art form. Drawing has since expanded its scope of possibilities, from intimate to large-scale works, across a wide range of markmaking processes and materials. The latest iteration in the series, Vitamin D3 continues this exploration, showcasing works of more than 100 artists – including the likes of Miriam Cahn, Otobong Nkanga, Wael Shawky and Toyin Ojih Odutola – nominated by more than 70 international art experts.

Nike: Better is Temporary

Sam Grawe Published by Phaidon

For lovers of urban culture (or simply good book design), this landmark publication may just be the thing. Nike: Better is Temporary charts the brand’s transformation from “rebellious upstart to global phenomenon”.The publication is an immersive visual survey, a behindthe-scenes exploration of its ethos-driven design formula, innovations and products, as well as unpublished designs and prototypes. The book is arranged in five thematic chapters: performance, brand expression, collaboration, inclusive design and sustainability. We also can’t help but also fall in love with its exceptional design that nods to its contents. The vibrant cover features overlapping silkscreened layers of Nike's proprietary Volt yellow and Hyperpunch pink colours overlaying an image of world-champion marathoner Eliud Kipchoge printed in a half-tone dot pattern. The book's spine, visible through the clear jacket, showcases a series of coloured tabs that extend from its interior pages.