What Swiss Taught Graphic Design and Innovator of New Wave Typography Famously Said I Took Swiss Typography as My Starting Point but Then Then I Blew It Apart?

The Swiss Style of Graphic Design, famously known as International Typographic Style, has been a major influence in graphic design since its birth in the 1950s. Developed by the likes of Emil Ruder, Armin Hofmann and Karl Gerstner, this style was revolutionary in its approach to design. Its core principles of simplicity and clarity of form, combined with a strict grid structure and sans-serif typefaces, were a departure from the then-dominant decorative styles.

The influence of Swiss Style can be seen in many aspects of modern graphic design today. It has become the foundation for all types of design work such as web design, typography and logo design. The use of an underlying grid system to structure content and white space to create visual hierarchy is still highly regarded as a way to produce clean and minimalistic designs.

Innovator of New Wave Typography, Jan Van Toorn famously said “I took Swiss typography as my starting point but then I blew it apart” in reference to his own approach to typography. His approach was based on breaking away from traditional rules and conventions associated with Swiss style typography and instead focusing on creating dynamic compositions by playing with fonts, sizes and weights. His emphasis on experimentation was seen as an important shift away from the rigid principles associated with Swiss style typography.

Van Toorn’s approach has had a major influence on contemporary graphic design – particularly when it comes to typography – and has helped push the boundaries of what is possible when it comes to creating unique designs that are both visually compelling and communicate effectively.

In conclusion, what Jan Van Toorn famously said “I took Swiss Typography as my starting point but then I blew it apart” illustrates his boldness in pushing boundaries within graphic design by experimenting with new approaches while still respecting the foundations set by the likes of Emil Ruder et al in their development of International Typographic Style or Swiss Style. His approach has had a major influence on contemporary graphic design today allowing for more creative freedom within type-based work.