In a world where design often feels like it's stuck in a time warp, the German design studio Matter Of dares to ask: Are we still living in the shadow of 20th-century typographic principles? Their new book, New New Typography, challenges the status quo and invites us to embark on a journey of typographic exploration and innovation.
Unsettling Established Paradigms
Matter Of's book is a bold statement in itself, with its minimalist aesthetic and playful use of color and typography. It's a deliberate disruption, a visual metaphor for the studio's mission to unsettle the established order. The book's design, with its alternating sans-serif typefaces and highlighted text, raises questions about the very nature of typefaces and their evolution. When does a typeface become 'new' or 'different'? It's a simple question with complex implications, and Matter Of explores this evolution with a light-hearted yet thought-provoking approach.
A Collaborative Revolution
What makes New New Typography truly fascinating is its collaborative nature. Almost a hundred contributors, from Adel Faure to Workbyworks, have come together to offer their unique perspectives on typography. This diverse range of voices showcases the breadth and depth of contemporary type design, from illustrated typefaces with historical roots to cutting-edge designs inspired by the human body. It's a celebration of the past, present, and future of typography, and a testament to the power of collaboration in pushing the boundaries of design.
Beyond Beauty and Legibility
The book delves into the philosophical and historical aspects of typography, quoting László Moholy-Nagy's distinction between ancient pictographic forms and modern writing. Old writing prioritized beauty, while old old writing centered legibility. But what about new writing? Is it about malleability, style, or something entirely different? Matter Of's book invites us to consider these questions and explore the evolving nature of typography.
An Anti-Manual for a New Era
Described as an anti-manual, New New Typography presents a speculative and adventurous overview of typography's impossibility. It blends high design theory with a modern sense of irony and cheekiness, challenging the idea that design manuals should provide definitive answers. In today's world, the act of imagining the future is a revolutionary act in itself.
Final Thoughts
Matter Of's New New Typography is more than just a book; it's a manifesto for a new era of typographic exploration. It invites us to question, to collaborate, and to embrace the unpredictable nature of design. In a world that often feels stagnant, this book is a breath of fresh air, reminding us that innovation and disruption are essential to the evolution of design. Personally, I find it inspiring and a much-needed wake-up call for the design community.
