Design is one
Please see link in title above for viewing information to the documentary.
In my life time I have had the privilege to be in the practice of graphic design for over 25 years and one of the most influential designer’s that I admired is Massimo Vignelli. I have fortunately worked on similar projects with institutions such as Seattle University. I have also designed maps and information systems for Community Transit, in Snohomish county of Washington state. My media publication design involved 5 newsletters and an annual report for Microsoft, many annual reports for a number of corporate clients as well as Corporate branding and brochures for Microsoft and AT&T. I feel a kindred spirit to Massimo’s work, although we never met I feel I know him intimately through my own path.
Massimo and Lella Vignelli were indeed influential designers who made significant contributions to the field of design, particularly in the areas of graphic design, product design, and brand creation. Here are some of their notable achievements:
- Graphic Design: The Vignellis were renowned for their minimalist and modernist approach to graphic design. They believed in the power of simplicity, clean lines, and clear communication. They created iconic graphic designs for various clients, including corporate identities, logos, posters, signage, and packaging.
- Corporate Branding: The Vignellis excelled in creating strong and enduring brand identities. One of their most famous projects was the redesign of the American retail store chain, Bloomingdale’s, in 1972. They developed a distinctive and timeless visual identity that included the iconic “Bloomingdale’s Big Brown Bag” logo, which is still in use today.
- Product Design: Massimo and Lella Vignelli also made significant contributions to product design. They designed a wide range of products, including furniture, tableware, and household items. Their designs were characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and functional elegance. One of their notable product designs is the Stendig Calendar, a minimalist and iconic wall calendar.
- Typography: The Vignellis had a deep understanding and appreciation for typography. They believed that typography played a crucial role in effective communication and brand expression. They created their own typeface called “Vignelli Alphabet” in the 1970s, which embodied their design philosophy of simplicity and clarity.
- Design Principles: Massimo Vignelli is well-known for his design manifesto titled “The Vignelli Canon.” In this influential document, he outlined his design principles and philosophies, emphasizing the importance of intellectual rigor, timelessness, and the pursuit of good design as a problem-solving tool.
Through their work, Massimo and Lella Vignelli left a lasting impact on the design industry. Their designs continue to be celebrated for their timeless aesthetic and influential approach, and their philosophy and principles have inspired many designers around the world.
Italian-born Massimo and Lella Vignelli are among the world’s most influential designers. Throughout their long career, their motto has been, ‘If you can’t find it, design it’ The work covers such a broad spectrum that one could say the Vignellis are known by everybody, even those who don’t know their names. From graphics to interiors to products and corporate identities, the film brings us into the work and everyday moments of the Vignellis’ world, capturing their intelligence and creativity, as well as their humanity, warmth, and humor.
A dynamic create team, Massimo and Lella Vignelli