A graphic designer who shaped the look of some of the UK’s most influential music has been awarded an honorary doctorate.
Brian Cannon, the designer behind the artwork for Oasis’ debut album, Definitely Maybe, was honoured today at the University of the West of Scotland’s (UWS) summer graduation ceremony at Paisley Abbey for his contributions to the design industry.
Reflecting on his honorary doctorate, Brian said: "I am delighted and honoured that my work is considered to be worthy of an honorary doctorate from the UWS and am very proud to be given this award – which I rank up there with anything I have ever achieved in my career."
As the founder of the design company Microdot, Brian established the visual identity of some of the most influential music acts of the 1990s, most notably through his long-standing collaboration with Oasis.
He is responsible for the album covers of Definitely Maybe, (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, and Be Here Now—artwork widely considered iconic in popular music culture and highly influential in both industry practice and design education.
His portfolio also includes The Verve’s Urban Hymns and Ash’s 1977, both UK number one albums, as well as work for Ruthless Rap Assassins, Suede, and Super Furry Animals.
Brian remains active in contemporary design and continues to collaborate with Oasis, contributing to Liam Gallagher’s Definitely Maybe anniversary tour and the 30-year re-releases of both Definitely Maybe and (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?
He has also produced artwork in Scotland on several occasions, including in Erskine, where he created a piece inspired by Oasis’s 1995 Maine Road concert.
When commissioned for new artwork for the Oasis Live ’25 tour programme, he returned to Erskine, working with an Erskine school pupil to help bring visibility to Renfrewshire during the major moment in music culture.
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."
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