Beschrijving

About the book:

Gert Dumbar (1940) is one of the most influential and vibrant graphic designers of the post-war era, both in the Netherlands and internationally. As a co-founder of Tel Design, he created the iconic logo for the Dutch Railways (NS), and through his own Studio Dumbar, he left an indelible mark on visual culture. His work, spanning from avant-garde theatres to multinational corporations, showcases his versatility and impact as an artist, provocateur, and design director. The book “Gert Dumbar, Gentleman Maverick of Dutch Design” highlights his rich body of work and unique vision, supported by a wealth of archival sketches that offer insight into his independent and creative spirit.

About the design:

For months, we carefully sought a balance in selecting images that best reflect the story, diversity, and artistic value of Gert Dumbar’s oeuvre. This book, written by Leonie Ten Duin and Max Bruinsma, is intended not only to document Gert’s professional life but also to emphasize the essence of the design profession. Our goal was to create a book that underscores the value of design while complementing the work of Gert Dumbar.

The use of a two-column grid allowed us to vary the image sizes, contributing to a dynamic presentation of his work. The choice of the Adobe Calson Pro typeface was a deliberate contrast to the predominantly sans-serif typography used by Studio Dumbar at the time, giving the book its own identity.

The many sketches included in the book reveal Studio Dumbar’s working methods, aligning with Gert Dumbar’s philosophy: “Step by step, you design a unique identity.” The cover design, featuring a poster by Gert Dumbar in the background, embodies the creative process that unfolds through action and experimentation. The cover depicts hands holding ropes, suggesting a sense of tension and control—a subtle reference to Gert’s masterful command of his craft. The back of the cover offers an intimate glimpse into the cluttered photo studio of Lex van Pieterson, a place where Gert and Lex spent countless hours together in a state of creative chaos. Inside the cover, a collage of Polaroids captures the vibrant and dynamic life within the studio, a visual echo of the many photos that once adorned the walls of Studio Dumbar, reflecting the artistic spirit that thrived there.