A British graphic designer who created the iconic cover art for Oasis’ debut album, Definitely Maybe, has been recognised at University of the West of Scotland’s summer graduations.  

Brian Cannon was awarded an Honorary Doctorate for his contributions to the design industry at the University’s graduation ceremony, which took place on Wednesday 8 July at the Paisley Abbey.

As the founder of design company, Microdot, Brian was responsible for shaping the visual identity of some of the most influential music of the 1990s, most notably through his long-standing collaboration with Oasis. 

His designs for Definitely Maybe, (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? and Be Here Now are widely regarded as among the most iconic album artworks in popular music and remain influential within both industry practice and design education.

Over his career, he has created artwork for several UK number one albums, including Urban Hymns by The Verve and 1977 by Ash, as well as working with artists such as Ruthless Rap Assassins, Suede, and Super Furry Animals.

He continues to play an active role in contemporary design and to collaborate with Oasis, with involvement in Liam Gallagher’s Definitely Maybe anniversary tour, the 30-year anniversary releases of Definitely Maybe and (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? and most recently the Oasis’s Live ’25 tour.

Brian has created artwork for the band in Scotland on several occasions, choosing Erskine as the backdrop for his re-imagined artwork inspired by Oasis’s 1995 Maine Road concert. 

Subsequently, when commissioned to create a new and original piece of artwork for the Oasis Live ’25 tour programme, he revisited the same location, working with an Erskine school pupil for the design and helping to bring visibility to Renfrewshire during the major moment in music culture. 

In November 2011, Brian received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Global Annual Design Awards in recognition of his contribution to the field.

Discussing his Honorary Doctorate from UWS, Brian said: “I am delighted and honoured that my work is considered to be worthy of an honorary doctorate from UWS and am very proud to be given this award - which I rank up there with anything I have ever achieved in my career.”

I am delighted and honoured that my work is considered to be worthy of an honorary doctorate from UWS.

Brian Cannon

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: “Graduation represents one of the most significant and rewarding moments in the University calendar. It is a time to celebrate the dedication, resilience and achievements of our students, and to recognise the invaluable support of their families, friends and the wider UWS community who have accompanied them throughout their academic journey.

“Brian’s career exemplifies the long-term impact that design and visual storytelling can have on public memory, identity and cultural legacy, making him a compelling role model and inspiration for our students - particularly those studying in creative disciplines such as the arts, design, media and music. 

“We are delighted to present Brian with an Honorary Doctorate from UWS, celebrating his creative excellence and recognising the impact his work continues to have on the industry. Congratulations to Brian and all our inspirational students who graduated at today’s ceremony.”

Brian’s career exemplifies the long-term impact that design and visual storytelling can have on public memory, identity and cultural legacy, making him a compelling role model and inspiration for our students - particularly those studying in creative disciplines such as the arts, design, media and music.

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS
 
Brian’s work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 8, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Goal 9, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.