Wolfgang Weingart

Wolfgang Weingart was born in Germany, in the Salem Valley which is actually closer to the Swiss border. In regards to education, Weingart attended atwo year graphic arts program at the Merz Academy in Stuttgart. While inschool, this accomplished artist worked concentrated on the task of handcomposition. Soon after, he finished his training as typesetter in a small printing shop. It was during this time that Weingart became fully introduced to Swiss typography. In the early 1960’s,Weingart forwarded his work to two famous designers, Emil Ruder and Armin Hofmass, who were actually the founders of the Basel School of Design. Weingart was accepted in the school, and was offered a position to teach typography. Not too bad of a start for this twenty-two year old enthusiast!

As Weingart gained more experience, he decided to become and instructor at the Yale University Summer Graphic Design Program in Brissago. This accomplished typographer has taught extensively in Europe, North and South America, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. It is no wonder that Weingart made the decision to graciously retire in the year 2004. Weingart is
described as a Swiss Typographer and is known as “the father” of New Wave or Swiss Punk typography. This talented designer stated, “"I took 'Swiss Typography' as my starting point, but then I blew it apart, never forcing any style upon my students. I never intended to create a 'style'. It just happened that the students picked up — and misinterpreted — a so-called 'Weingart style' and spread it around.”

(The image below is of Weingart's book, which is a helpful guide and learning techniques based on his own style of typography)

Weignart’s work has been highly commended, as he was awarded the honorary title of Doctor of Fine Arts in 2005. His work was also awarded a mark of excellence by the Swiss Federal Minister of the Interior in Berne.

Below are samples of Weingart’s designs. I found them to be eye-catching. This class has helped me form a higher appreciation for graphic designers or typographers, like Weingart. Prior to this class, I thought that designing look pretty simple…and how my perspective has changed!! Typography and other designs seem to require a great amount of detail and creativity. It seems that even a simple looking design isn't always simple to create.