Max Robinson

A respected visual communicator, designer and an artist, it’s been Max Robinson’s relentless passion for quality that has set him apart.

Since his humble career beginnings that involved washing brushes at an advertising agency back in 1952, Max Robinson is today a venerated figure in the Australian Graphic Design industry. Included in the Graphis ‘Whose Who in Graphic Art’, he cites Jimmy Haughton-James, Peter Clemenger and Max Forbes as key influences in his career trajectory. Partnership with Clement Meadmore was another significant juncture while friendship with Barry Humphries resulted in some memorable and “bizarre parodies.”

It’s Max Robinson’s vast body of work over 60-years in addition to his advocacy for the Graphic Design profession that led to his induction in the Australian Graphic Design Association’s (AGDA) Hall of Fame (2010).

Creation of the original symbol and numerous program designs for the Melbourne Film Festival during the 1950s not only elevated the event, but also drew attention to Max’s ability to engage audiences from his career outset, as did his cover designs for World Record Club. During a 12-year stint during the ‘60s in London, some of Max’s key clients included: Avis, BOAC Airlines, Trust Houses Forte, Caledonian Airlines, Stamps of the World, Quant, and Qantas. On Australian soil, the equally impressive list included: the Reserve Bank, Yulara Tourist Resort Ayers Rock (signature and signage), Global Funds Management, Department of Trade, BHP, Western Mining, Esanda, Hospitals of Australia, Colonial Mutual Life, Alcoa, Spotless and Gribbles.

Publically, Max is perhaps best known as the designer of the $10 note while his talent for painting was on display at Whitechapel Show in London.

The DIA Hall of Fame recognises the achievements of Max Robinson.