So I’m a little late to the game when it comes to the Computer Arts Collection, which is an annual series of six in-depth guides (a new edition is released every two months) full of inspiration from each of the following disciplines: graphic design, typography, illustration, branding, photography and advertising. But nevertheless, I am so glad I found this awesome set of ultra thick magazines that are so jam-packed full of content that they’re more in line with softcover books.

I was in Barnes and Noble last month and spotted the retro-futuristic cover for the Illustration Issue (number 3 in the series) and had to know more. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill creative magazine. Each issue features industry leaders who share their processes and insights. And even better, there’s a talent directory in the back of each issue listing contact info for the best of the best!

Beyond that, at 200+ pages, I was blown away at just how well the content is designed. Multiple weights of paper, many saturated with colorful patterns and tons of unique graphic lockups make this a must-have if you’re in most creative fields. I could have easily scanned another 50+ pages because the content is THAT good…and I’m not even an illustrator. I’m now backtracking since I discovered these so late, trying to pick up the first two issues I missed (graphic design and typography).

Enough of my over-the-top excitement. All I can say is that this series is amazing and will send your creative juices into overdrive. All issues are available here.