Jan van Toorn
Critical Practice
text Rick Poynor

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Auteur(s)

Rick Poynor

Uitgever, jaar

Rotterdam : 010 Publishers, 2008

Omvang

240 p., geïllustreerd, 27 cm.

ISBN

9789064505652

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Jan van Toorn ( (1932-2020) was one of the most significant and influential Dutch graphic designers since the early 1960s. Van Toorn focused on meaning rather than smooth stylistic expression and developed critical alternatives to the usual design world conventions. Van Toorn aligned himself with the reflexive tradition of art and communication exemplified by Brecht and Godard. His designs persistently call attention to their status as visual contrivances, obliging the viewer to make an effort to process their complexities. Van Toorn wanted the public to measure the motives of both the client and the designer who mediates the client’s message against their own experiences of the world. He hoped in this way to stimulate a more active and sceptical view of art, communication, media ownership and society. Projects such as Van Toorn’s posters and catalogues are powerful demonstrations of graphic design used as a means of commentary and as a tool of critique. Later, as director of the Jan van Eyck Academy, Van Toorn drew his critical practice into a multi-levelled educational initiative that urged designers to think harder about design’s role in shaping contemporary reality.

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Persoon als onderwerp

Jan van Toorn

Trefwoorden

engagement , grafische vormgeving , vormgeving , esthetica - kritische esthetiek , grafisch vormgevers

Locatie in de bibliotheek

Kast 13 - 5: Grafische vormgeving / Graphic Design

Bevat

noten / notes , bibliografie / bibliography