Sean Wolcott

Sean Wolcott is a Seattle-based graphic designer. Having created design experiences for products used by billions, Sean runs his own consulting practice, Rationale, where he designs identities, packaging, signage, publications, websites, and user interfaces for a wide range of clients.

His work reflects a holistic philosophy of design and a visual language, which aims at rational, objective expression that can appropriately convey client values. For Mr. Wolcott, design is not a matter of style, but rather a logical, problem-solving process that leads to timeless solutions.

Sean had the privilege of studying under Massimo Vignelli, whose teachings continue to inform his philosophy and propel his craft to higher standards of excellence. His work is often featured in printed and online publications, and he has been selected by Vignelli as one of the top five American graphic designers today under the age of 50. 

Sean has also taught at the School of Visual Concepts in Seattle, Washington, where he instructed corporate identity and user interface design courses. His efforts to inform and promote a better design culture are also reflected in his activity as an international speaker, having lectured several times in the United States, as well as in European countries.

Awards

• 2014 Selected by Massimo Vignelli as one of the top five American graphic designers today under the age of 50
  laFondazioneNY
• 2013 International business design award
  Microsoft
• 2012–2013 Massimo Vignelli masterclass winner

Exhibitions

• 2014 AIGA 100 Chaircuterie
  Denver, Colorado, USA

Speaking

2014
• Designing Beautiful Products
  Microsoft
  Redmond, Washington, USA
2014
• Øredev
  Malmö, Sweden
• Microsoft Ventures Design Week
  Redmond, Washington, USA
2013
• Beyond Tiles
  Stockholm, Sweden
• RIT Vignelli Center for Design Studies
  Rochester, New York, USA
  

Teaching

• 2013–2014
  School of Visual Concepts
  Seattle, Washington, USA

• "More than proud, I am honored to know such a talent" Massimo Vignelli


• "We – the old soldiers – got from Sean the confirmation that our beliefs never have to die. In a world of design that is too often going to extremes, it is a relief to find that there is still enough space for a plain style." Ben Bos


• "I am impressed by his strong and consequent work" Wim Crouwel


• "I am impressed by your vital strength of design." Rolf Müller

2014
• Unit Editions: Manuals 2
  Interview/essay
• Arcade Magazine
  Modernist graphic design in the Pacific Northwest – Tracing designers and influence
  Article
• Sean Wolcott: Graphic Design 2008–2014
  Promotional book