Storm Thorgerson (British, b.1944) is a graphic designer who is responsible for some of the most famous rock album covers ever made. He was born in Potters Bar, England. Thorgerson received his BA in Philosophy and English from Leicester University in 1966. Thorgerson moved on to the Royal College of Art after graduation, and he earned a MA in Television and Film Production in 1969.
The artist cofounded the Hipgnosis studio with Aubrey Powell (British, b.1946) during 1968. Thorgerson has attracted a number of bands looking for photography and graphic design that fit the surreal lyrics of their songs. One of his first major works was the cover for Pink Floyd's A Saucerful of Secrets album. Thorgerson created a lively collage featuring comic book pages and swirling planetary systems. He went on to design most of the album covers for the band. Other bands that requested design work from the artist include Styx, Ween, Genesis, The Cranberries, and Biffy Clyro. His most well-known work is the cover of Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon. Thorgerson's design for the cover was drafted by George Hardie (British, b.1944), a fellow member of the Hipgnosis studio.
He is considered to be part of the modern Surrealism movement, and has named René Magritte (Belgian, 1888–1967) as one of his biggest influences. The artist's training in film and television production has allowed him to create music videos for many bands as well. Pink Floyd's High Hopes was his latest directorial work in 1994. He was also responsible for the video for Owner of a Lonely Heart by Yes and Street of Dreams by Rainbow. Thorgerson's work was the focus of a retrospective show at London's OXO Tower in 2009. He currently lives in London and represents himself as the owner of Storm Studios.
