This article forms part of the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub providing a structured overview of design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.
The Journey from the Azores to Global Recognition
Manuel Lima, born on May 3, 1978, in São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal, has made a significant mark in design, authorship, and lecturing, especially in information visualization and visual culture. Lima was drawn to the visual language of maps from a young age, a fascination nurtured by his father and family road trips. This early interest laid the foundation for his future design and information visualization pursuits.
In 1996, Lima embarked on a journey that would shape his career. He moved to Lisbon to study Industrial Design at the Faculty of Architecture, Technical University of Lisbon. His academic and professional path then took him to Copenhagen and finally to New York City, where he completed his MFA at Parsons School of Design in 2005. Under the influence of his teacher, Christopher Kirwan, it was here that Lima’s passion for information design truly ignited.
Networkism: The Art of Information
In his groundbreaking book “Visual Complexity: Mapping Patterns of Information” (2011), Lima introduces the concept of Networkism. This movement goes beyond mere scientific endeavour; it represents a cultural meme, encapsulating the interconnectedness and complexity of modern systems, whether they be in genetics, sociology, or computer systems. Lima’s portrayal of Networkism as an artistic trend demonstrates his unique ability to blend scientific concepts with aesthetic representation.
Proclivity for Circles: An Innate Human Tendency
Lima’s “The Book of Circles: Visualizing Spheres of Knowledge” (2017) explores our innate attraction to circular shapes. He presents three hypotheses: the human preference for curves from infancy, as evidenced by various psychological studies; the association of circles with happiness, as demonstrated in John N. Bassili’s experiments; and the spherical geometry of the human eye, suggesting a natural inclination toward circular forms.
Recognition and Influence
Lima’s innovative approach and contributions have not gone unnoticed. He was named one of the “50 most creative and influential minds” by Creativity magazine in 2009 and became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) in 2010. His influence extended to his home country, Portugal, where he received the Innovative Entrepreneurship Award and served as a curator for the Portuguese delegation at the London Design Biennale 2016.
A Legacy of Design and Information
Manuel Lima’s journey from the Azores to becoming a renowned figure in the design world is a testament to the power of passion and innovation. His work in information visualization and his exploration of the aesthetics of information represent a significant contribution to both the design and scientific communities. Lima’s influence continues to shape how we perceive and visualize complex information.
Additional Reading
Lima, M. (2017). The Book of Circles: Visualizing Spheres of Knowledge. United States: Princeton Architectural Press. https://amzn.to/3Xpvy6G
Lima, M. (2014). The Book of Trees: Visualizing Branches of Knowledge. United States: Princeton Architectural Press. https://amzn.to/3XpRkqT
Lima, M. (2023). The New Designer: Rejecting Myths, Embracing Change. United Kingdom: MIT Press. https://amzn.to/45pjGnp
Lima, M. (2013). Visual Complexity: Mapping Patterns of Information (history of Information and Data Visualization and Guide to Today’s Innovative Applications). United States: Princeton Architectural Press. https://amzn.to/3Vlrvps
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