Salon Series 28: Letterforms of the Viennese Secession

At the turn of the 19th to 20th centuries, Western design underwent a clash of ideas: those who sought a return to the handcrafts of the past, and those who wanted to create entirely new modes of making; those who found inspiration in the flowing forms of nature, and those who embraced the sleek geometry of the machine. These ideals are viscerally expressed in the type and typography of the time, especially within the Jugendstil and Viennese Secession movements which continue to influence design after 100 years. Stephen Coles will take us on a floral and florid tour of Letterform Archive’s extensive collection from this period, including advertising, fine printing, and typeface specimens.

This event is co-presented by Poster House in New York whose exhibition on Jugendstil artist Julius Klinger runs through August 15.

About the Salon Series

Letterform Archive’s Salon Series is a regular event featuring a member of the staff — or a guest expert — taking a deeper dive into specific collections or themes within the Archive. Salon recordings are available exclusively to members. Visit your member benefits page to access the video.