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Paul Rand’s Background and Early Work
- Paul Rand, born in 1914, is considered one of the most influential American graphic designers of the 20th century.
- He was born in Brooklyn, New York.
- Rand embraced new trends, influenced by German and British modernist design in his teenage years.
- His inspirations included Cassandre, Miró, Klee, and Léger.
- In the 1940s, Rand incorporated Swiss style into his creations.
Paul Rand’s Philosophy
- Rand believed that good graphic design was equal to fine art.
- He stated: “It is integrity, honesty, absence of sentimentality and absence of nostalgia, it is simplicity, clarity.”
- Rand brought avant-garde European ideas to the United States, mixing visual arts and commercial design.
- Inspirations included Roger Fry, John Dewey, and Paul Klee.
Paul Rand’s Legacy
- He created logos for IBM, ABC, UPS, and others.
- Rand’s use of bold, primary colors and geometric shapes were key components of his designs.
- Rand helped shape strong brand image and Swiss Style graphic design.