Beginning with a history of humour in art, this book examines the very concept of wit and gives examples of the various forms of humour: slapstick, situational, satiric, pun, metaphor and fantasy. The author gives a critical analysis of why and when the inherently "witty" is successfully presented or not as well. The heart of the book focuses on graphic inventions or original solutions to design problems in such specific areas as posters, typography, illustration and photography. In interviews with 13 designers, Heller explores the uses of humour in logos, book covers, brochures, menus, comic strips, magazines and posters.