delmark records

18. LAINI (SYLVIA ABERNATHY)

Abernathy-NegroDigest.png

I introduce Laini (born Sylvia Abernathy), Chicago civil rights activist and the first femme graphic designer to be credited with jazz album design. 

Laini designed for Delmark records in the 1960’s but I also discuss her fame as the art director for the Wall of Respect mural on Chicago’s south side. 

I discuss her four best-known album designs, including her use of artwork, interesting fonts, and vibrating colors.

 
 

WALL OF RESPECT MURAL

DESIGNS FOR DELMARK RECORDS

 

VIBRATING COLORS