Man who created Oasis’ iconic album covers given honorary doctorate from Scottish university

Now, it's creator has been recognised at the University of the West of Scotland’s (UWS) summer graduations.

As well as Oasis' 1994 debut album, graphic designer Brian Cannon is is also the brains behind the artwork for (What’s the Story) Morning Glory and Be Here Now, as well as the band’s familiar logo.

At the university’s graduation ceremony, which took place on Wednesday at the Paisley Abbey, he was awarded an honorary doctorate for his contributions to the design industry.

As the founder of design company, Microdot, Cannon 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 the Manchester indie legends.

As well as his work with Oasis, he has created artwork for several UK number one albums - including Urban Hymns by The Verve and 1977 by Ash - and has worked 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’ Live ’25 tour.

Cannon 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, he 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, Cannon 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.”

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.”