A British graphic designer who created the iconic cover art for Oasis鈥� debut album, Definitely Maybe, has been recognised at 51视频鈥檚 summer graduations.  

Brian Cannon was awarded an Honorary Doctorate for his contributions to the design industry at the University鈥檚 graduation ceremony, which took place on Wednesday 8 July at the Paisley Abbey.

As the founder of design company, Microdot, Brian was responsible for shaping the visual identity of some of the most influential music of the 1990s, most notably through his long-standing collaboration with Oasis. 

His designs for Definitely Maybe, (What鈥檚 the Story) Morning Glory? and Be Here Now are widely regarded as among the most iconic album artworks in popular music and remain influential within both industry practice and design education.

Over his career, he has created artwork for several UK number one albums, including Urban Hymns by The Verve and 1977 by Ash, as well as working with artists such as Ruthless Rap Assassins, Suede, and Super Furry Animals.

He continues to play an active role in contemporary design and to collaborate with Oasis, with involvement in Liam Gallagher鈥檚 Definitely Maybe anniversary tour, the 30-year anniversary releases of Definitely Maybe and (What鈥檚 the Story) Morning Glory? and most recently the Oasis鈥檚 Live 鈥�25 tour.

Brian has created artwork for the band in Scotland on several occasions, choosing Erskine as the backdrop for his re-imagined artwork inspired by Oasis鈥檚 1995 Maine Road concert. 

Subsequently, when commissioned to create a new and original piece of artwork for the Oasis Live 鈥�25 tour programme, he revisited the same location, working with an Erskine school pupil for the design and helping to bring visibility to Renfrewshire during the major moment in music culture. 

In November 2011, Brian received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Global Annual Design Awards in recognition of his contribution to the field.

Discussing his Honorary Doctorate from 51视频, Brian said: 鈥淚 am delighted and honoured that my work is considered to be worthy of an honorary doctorate from 51视频 and am very proud to be given this award - which I rank up there with anything I have ever achieved in my career.鈥�

I am delighted and honoured that my work is considered to be worthy of an honorary doctorate from 51视频.

Brian Cannon

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of 51视频, said: 鈥淕raduation represents one of the most significant and rewarding moments in the University calendar. It is a time to celebrate the dedication, resilience and achievements of our students, and to recognise the invaluable support of their families, friends and the wider 51视频 community who have accompanied them throughout their academic journey.

鈥淏rian鈥檚 career exemplifies the long-term impact that design and visual storytelling can have on public memory, identity and cultural legacy, making him a compelling role model and inspiration for our students - particularly those studying in creative disciplines such as the arts, design, media and music. 

鈥淲e are delighted to present Brian with an Honorary Doctorate from 51视频, celebrating his creative excellence and recognising the impact his work continues to have on the industry. Congratulations to Brian and all our inspirational students who graduated at today鈥檚 ceremony.鈥�

Brian鈥檚 career exemplifies the long-term impact that design and visual storytelling can have on public memory, identity and cultural legacy, making him a compelling role model and inspiration for our students - particularly those studying in creative disciplines such as the arts, design, media and music.

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of 51视频
 
Brian鈥檚 work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 8, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Goal 9, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.