In memory of Len Deighton

Considered one of the major creative forces in 1960s Britain, Len studied at the Royal College of Art, graduating with an ARCA Diploma in Graphic Design in 1955.

Following his graduation, Len had a varied career working as a flight steward and as an illustrator in publishing, during which time he designed more than 200 book covers, including the first UK edition of Jack Kerouac’s On the Road. He subsequently worked as an art director in the advertising industry before becoming famous as a novelist.

His debut book, The Ipcress File, was an instant bestseller when it was released in 1962, and was credited with redefining the spy novel in the 1960s, introducing realism, dry wit and a working class protagonist into the genre, contrasting with the image of the upper class spy popularised by the James Bond stories.

During his time at the College, he designed covers and illustrated articles for the RCA’s long-running ARK Magazine - an influential presence in British cultural life at the time.

Sharing his recollections of College life for the 2014 Graphics Fifty exhibition catalogue, Len wrote: 'The whole College was aware of the unique distinction bestowed on us when the Duke of Edinburgh presided over our graduation ceremony. He made a characteristically entertaining speech in which he said that artists were dangerous people, for they penetrated into all sections of society. We wanted to believe him and we could hardly wait. He pressed our diplomas into our anxious little hands and we walked out ten feet high.'