
Count Basie

Stan Getz
"A beguiling sense of humor underpins Chwast's
illustration, and a keen understanding of traditional design governs
his method." (Steven Heller, graphic-design.com)

The
Designer - Seymour Chwast
Seymour Chwast was born in New York City and is a graduate of
The Cooper Union, where he studied illustration and graphic design.
He is a founding partner of the celebrated Push Pin Studios, whose
distinct style has had a worldwide influence on contemporary visual
communications. In 1985 the studio’s name was changed to The Pushpin
Group, of which Mr. Chwast is the director.
It would be difficult to imagine contemporary American and European
graphic design and illustration without the presence of Seymour Chwast. By the
middle of the 1950s, as the Norman Rockwell epoch drew to a close, Chwast was
already known for his unique style of illustration. His playful, expressive approach
to type and layout was the point of a new design wave based on revivalism—a radical
alternative to the Swiss formalism of the time. For over 30 years he has continued
to ride above the twists and turns of fashion; today his art is even more energized
and varied than when it originally altered a generation's perceptions.
"For
some 30 years, Chwast has been known for his unique style of illustration; and
a fresh, sometimes playful approach to typography. His social commentary and unique
way of combining images and ideas influenced an entire generation of designers
and illustrators. The Push Pin Studio produced an award-winning bi-monthly publication,
The Push Pin Graphic. Over the years it gained a world-wide reputation for its
innovative design and illustration because of Seymour Chwast and Milton
Glaser. It was the showcase and springboard for many illustrators and designers
like David Croland, Michael Hostovich, Jeffrey Krassner, Fred Marshall and Haruo
Miyauchi.
From posters to book covers to children's books and advertising
design, Chwast has touched on virtually every facet of visual communications.
Many 'new' graphics we see today are heavily influenced by Chwast's touch. He's
been there -- done that." (Steven Heller, graphic-design.com)
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