Massimo Vignelli

Client
Professor

Objective
The AIGA Design Archive at the Denver Art Museum is one of the largest holdings of contemporary American communication design from about 1980 to 2010. In celebration of new acquisitions, the museum has partnered with the educational outreach branch of AIGA and the Type Directors Club to commission a series of posters for a traveling exhibit celebrating new typographic acquisitions to the archive and raise awareness of the rich history of Graphic Design in the United States. 

The objective is to design a poster for the series. The posters will feature designers who are recognized for their contributions to the profession, specifically in celebration of their typographic work. Choose a designer, conduct research, develop the written content, and design the front and back of a poster celebrating the contributions of your subject.

Concept
According to Vignelli, design is not art. A good design expresses “intellectual elegance,” not vulgarity, or anything “not refined.” Vignelli was known for his objectivity and clarity. Vignelli was known for his order and systematic approach. His designs incorporated the grid. Vignelli was disciplined and strict in his design. It shows in his austere and modern style in the use of color and attention to negative space. To reflect Vignelli’s design, Helvetica typeface is used to speak to the audience with a utilitarian approach. The grid system is used to bring about hierarchy. Asymmetry and negative space will be used to reflect a modernist approach.

Deliverables
Working file
Print file
One poster, 11” x 17”

Credits
Sekoyah Mcglorn, graphic designer
License Free Assets, photography