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Portrait of Rajie Cook

Rajie Cook

Pioneering graphic designer, activist.

Born
1930
Born in
Newark, New Jersey
Path
Arts
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Why Rajie is here

Cook's innovations in visual communication and his dedicated humanitarian work have left a lasting impact on both the design world and Palestinian advocacy, highlighting the power of art in promoting understanding and change.

Their story

Rajie Cook (1930–2021) was a Palestinian American graphic designer and artist. With Cook and Shanosky Associates, he developed wayfinding pictograms for the US Department of Transportation. His later assemblage art explored Palestinian self-determination and everyday life.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Rajie’s path.

  1. Founding Cook and Shanosky Associates

    In 1967, Cook co-founded this design firm, which became instrumental in developing communication through design.

  2. Presidential Award for Design Excellence

    In 1984, Cook received this prestigious award from President Ronald Reagan and Elizabeth Dole for his contributions to graphic design.

  3. Creation of Universal Pictograms

    His firm developed symbols for the US Department of Transportation in 1974, which remain in use globally.

  4. Art Activism

    Later in life, Cook turned to art activism, creating works that highlighted the plight of the Palestinian people.

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  5. Spiritual Journey to Palestine

    At 54, Cook visited Palestine, a trip that deeply influenced his work and advocacy.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Universal Pictograms

    Cook's design of universally understood symbols has facilitated easier navigation in public spaces worldwide.

  2. Advocacy Through Art

    His art has highlighted and called attention to the human rights issues faced by Palestinians.

  3. Innovative Design Work

    Cook's graphic design work has been utilized by major corporations, influencing corporate communication strategies.

  4. Educational Contributions

    As an alumnus and advisory board member of the Pratt Institute, Cook contributed to educating future generations of designers.

  5. Museum Collections

    Cook's work, including the Symbols Signs project, has been included in prestigious institutions like the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum.

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