Iranian Typography is a catalog of 50 years of Iranian graphic design – logos and posters. The co-operative exchange between schools in Iran and Switzerland, this documents the work of Iran’s most talented designers. Originally exhibited at the Basel School of Design FHNW/HGK in 2007, the new catalog distinguishes what is different about graphic design in Iran from what is known in western countries.
Gregory Vines (gre.ory@bluewin.ch), from the Basel School, tells me: “the entire poster exhibition, which is stored at school, will be thrown out this Spring due to storage space problems. If you know of anyone who might be interested in it and has the financial means to pay for the transport, we would give it to them for free!”
The publisher notes:
The most distinct features of Iranian graphic design come from the use of a different writing system, and therefore a different typography. After the advent of Islam the art of calligraphy, both in Islamic and Iranian cultures, was considered one of the most important art forms. Although the Persian writing system is closely related to the Arabic, its function in Iranian calligraphy has developed on a completely different basis since the 17th century AD.
In a sense, this process can still be observed in the typographical works of contemporary graphic designers. This brilliant calligraphic background in Iranian arts enabled the New Generation of Iranian graphic designers to present a new and different typographical attitude to the world. An attitude that is drawing its originality and identity from the golden age of Iranian calligraphy with a fresh and contemporary approach.
Copies can be ordered here.
