In a world where design and typography are often seen as static and unchanging, the German design studio Matter Of dares to ask: Are we still living in the shadow of 20th-century typographic principles? Their thought-provoking design book, "New New Typography," challenges the status quo and invites us to explore the possibilities of a typographic revolution.
Unsettling Established Paradigms
The title itself is a bold statement, a direct reference to Jan Tschichold's proclamation of "new typography" a century ago. Matter Of, led by designer Wiegand von Hartmann, takes us on a journey to question and disrupt the norms. With a minimalist aesthetic, the book's design is a rebellion in itself, featuring disruptive squiggles and highlighted text, almost as if it were vandalized with felt-tip markers.
A Collaborative Revolution
What makes this project particularly fascinating is the diverse range of collaborators. Nearly 100 designers, artists, and thinkers have come together to contribute to this smorgasbord of ideas. From Adel Faure to Bye Bye Binary, the book showcases a wide array of perspectives, including illustrated typefaces from as early as 1602 and cutting-edge type design inspired by the human body.
Old vs. New: A Battle of Priorities
One of the key insights from "New New Typography" is the shift in priorities between old and new writing. Old writing, as quoted by László Moholy-Nagy, focused on beauty and legibility. But what about the new? Is it about adaptability and style? The book explores these questions, suggesting that new writing may be defined by its ability to evolve and adapt.
An Anti-Manual for a New Era
Described as an anti-manual, "New New Typography" presents a unique blend of design theory and modern irony. With its adventurous speculation, the book challenges the idea that typographers are merely designers. It raises the question: Could they be active negotiators of political systems? This is a thought-provoking idea, especially in a world where design often reflects and influences societal norms.
Daring to Imagine
In my opinion, the true power of this book lies in its ability to inspire and provoke. It's not about delivering definitive answers but rather encouraging us to imagine and explore. In a time where the future can feel uncertain, this book serves as a reminder that daring to imagine is a powerful act in itself.
So, are we stuck in the typographic principles of the past? Matter Of's "New New Typography" suggests that the answer is a resounding no. It's a call to action, inviting us to embrace the new, the different, and the innovative.
