The human presence adds authenticity to design. Blurring the line between onstage and backstage, a designer may leave a personal imprint—in a subtle or an obvious way—that becomes part of the message. The Body as a Palette for Design examines the integration of the designer’s image into his or her work. This thesis evolved from research on New York-based graphic designer Stefan Sagmeister and the personal trace he leaves in many of his designs, including using his handwriting, photographing his body, or presenting his maxims.