20th Century Type Remix : Book Review

"20th Century Type Remix" by Lewis Blackwell is a captivating exploration into the evolution of typography in the 20th century. With stunning visuals and insightful commentary, the book takes readers on a journey through the different typographic styles and innovations that shaped the visual language of the last century.

The book begins by providing historical context and discussing the influences of the early 20th century on typography, including Modernism and Art Deco. Blackwell delves into the iconic typefaces and design movements that emerged during this period, showcasing their impact on print and graphic design. From the clean lines of the Bauhaus to the flamboyance of Art Nouveau, the author explores the unique characteristics and contributions of each style.

As the book progresses, Blackwell highlights the shift towards experimental and vibrant typography in the mid-20th century. He illustrates the rise of postmodernism and the playful, rebellious use of type that challenged traditional design conventions. Through rich visuals and in-depth analysis, the author examines the unconventional approaches adopted by groundbreaking designers like David Carson and April Greiman.

Furthermore, "20th Century Type Remix" delves into the digital revolution and its impact on typography. Blackwell discusses the transition from traditional typesetting techniques to digital fonts, exploring the advantages and limitations of this new era. He also explores the rise of digital type foundries and showcases how designers utilize technology to push creative boundaries.

Overall, Lewis Blackwell's "20th Century Type Remix" is a visually stunning and intellectually enriching tribute to the evolution of typography in the last century. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the various typographic styles and movements that have shaped graphic design and visual communication. Whether you have a passion for typography or an interest in design history, this book is a must-read.

What are readers saying?

"20th Century Type Remix" by Lewis Blackwell is a highly acclaimed book that delves into the fascinating evolution of typography during the 20th century. Geared towards design enthusiasts and lovers of typography, it has received a range of feedback from readers.

Many reviewers commended Blackwell's comprehensive approach to the subject matter. They appreciated the book's meticulous analysis of various typefaces and its examination of typography's influence on visual culture. Readers found the book to be both informative and educational, particularly enjoying the historical context provided for each typeface. The inclusion of high-quality visuals and examples also enriched the reading experience.

However, some reviewers felt that the book lacked cohesiveness and structure. They found it to be disjointed, jumping between different topics and time periods without a clear narrative thread, making it challenging to grasp the overarching theme. Additionally, a handful of readers mentioned that while the visuals were plentiful, the accompanying explanations and analysis were insufficient, leaving them desiring more depth and detail.

Another common critique was the book's lack of interactivity and engagement. Several reviewers expressed disappointment with the absence of interactive elements in the digital edition of the book, such as links to additional resources or videos. They believed that a topic like typography would benefit from a more interactive experience.

Despite these criticisms, many reviewers still viewed "20th Century Type Remix" as a valuable resource for designers and typographers. They appreciated the author's evident passion for the subject and the extensive research that went into the book. Overall, readers found it to be an insightful exploration of typography's evolution in the 20th century, despite its organizational flaws and lack of interactivity.

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