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Helvetica

File(s)
helvetica.html (2.37 KB)
Video
Permanent Link(s)
https://hdl.handle.net/1813/36252
Collections
Library Multimedia and Videos
Author
Hustwit, Gary
Siegel, Shelby
Geissbuhler, Luke
Swiss Dots (Firm), Veer (Firm)
Plexifilm (Firm)
Abstract

A documentary about a typeface? When said typeface is a ubiquitous piece of graphic design, yes. Helvetica--a sans-serif typeface developed in 1957 at the Haas Foundry in Munchenstein, Switzerland--has partisans and detractors, a great number of them graphic designers and theorists, who express their opinions on the famous font. It is seen as neutral and efficient, concise yet inexpressive, purposeful yet not caustic, utilitarian and unembellished, or as frustratingly familiar, perfectly subliminal, or as the typeface of socialism. From storefronts, street signs, product packaging, government forms, and advertisements, it is almost guaranteed that after viewing, you will be scanning the world examining Helvetica's continuing impact.

Date Issued
2007
Publisher
Swiss Dots, Ltd. ; Plexifilm
Keywords
Helvetica type
•
Type and type-founding
•
Typographers
•
Graphic design (Typography)
•
Sans serif type
•
Graphic arts
•
Visual communication
•
Typographers
Previously Published as
Helvetica / a Swiss Dots production ; in association with Veer ; a film by Gary Hustwit ; produced and directed by Gary Hustwit. London : Swiss Dots Ltd. ; Brooklyn, NY : Plexifilm, 2007.
Type
video/moving image

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