Poland is known for music other than polka, and for good graphic design (dobra grafika) other than the brilliant Polish poster tradition. Recently, I obtained a collection of Polish sheet music that is exemplary of the modernistic style of type and illustration so common in Poland before the country was carved up during World War II. Like posters of the same period, these were not the subversively symbolic images used to circumvent Communist censors, but the joyful pictorial display of a thriving cultural and commercial nation. The designers and artists, sad to say, are unknown at this time, but anyone with information should not be shy.
1. “Jasnie Mr. Chauffeur”
2. “Lover From a Screen”
3. “Parade of the Reservists”
4. “Black Pearl”
5. “I Want to Live in Warsaw”
6. “Babuliczki [Grandma], According to a Folk Russian Song”
7. “Soldier’s Tango”
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Print‘s August issue is devoted to trash. It includes a special section guest designed by Sulki & Min; a visual essay by Jillian Tamaki; a look into the garbage cans and recycling bins of 18 designers; and stories by Rick Poynor, Steven Heller, Debbie Millman, Fritz Swanson, Michèle Champagne, and more. Order your copy, or download a PDF version, at MyDesignShop.com..