A definitive exploration of Swiss design, this book delves into the principles, evolution, and global influence of the Swiss Style, which revolutionized graphic design in the 20th century.
Review
Richard Hollis’ Swiss Graphic Design is an authoritative guide to the Swiss Style, a movement characterized by its precision, clarity, and functionality. The book provides a comprehensive overview of how this style emerged in the early 20th century and grew into an international phenomenon. Hollis examines the underlying philosophies that shaped Swiss design, such as the use of grid systems, sans-serif typography, and a focus on communication over decoration.
Central to the book are detailed analyses of key figures and movements, including the seminal work of Josef Müller-Brockmann, whose posters and publications epitomize the Swiss Style’s rigor and harmony, and Armin Hofmann, known for his teaching and minimalist approach to typography. Hollis also contextualizes the movement within broader cultural and technological developments, highlighting how post-war modernism influenced the rise of a design style that prioritized functionality and universality.
The book is richly illustrated with over 300 examples of posters, advertisements, typefaces, and layouts, offering readers a visual feast of iconic works. Each image is accompanied by insightful commentary, helping readers understand the design decisions that made the Swiss Style so influential. Hollis also explores the lasting legacy of Swiss graphic design, showing how its principles continue to inform contemporary design practices worldwide.
Details
- Author: Richard Hollis
- Publisher: Yale University Press
- First Published: 2006
- Recommended For: Graphic designers, typographers, educators, and design historians.
- Additional Details: Features over 300 high-quality illustrations and an in-depth exploration of the movement’s cultural and historical context.