Frankfurter Buchmesse 2024

Posted on by Juliane Lipp

The Frankfurter Buchmesse 2024, held from October 16th to 20th, was a vibrant hub for global publishers and book lovers, and we were glad to have visited again!

Italy, the Guest of Honor, took center stage with the theme Roots in the Future, showcasing a dynamic blend of literature, art, and culture. The Italian Pavilion, designed to resemble a traditional piazza, was a lively space for discussions and exhibitions. Over 100 Italian authors participated, including notable figures like Carlo Rovelli and Francesca Melandri, offering insights into contemporary Italian literature. Highlights also included exhibitions like Young Pencils Between Illustration and Comics, reflecting Italy’s rich literary and artistic heritage.

The fair introduced Frankfurt Connect, a new digital platform to enhance networking beyond the event, allowing participants to connect with potential partners year-round. Another standout was the introduction of a young adult literature pavilion, reflecting the booming popularity of genres like romance and fantasy, especially driven by social media trends.

In the vast amount of books, we were happy to spot some of ours as well, i.e. REBEL PRINTS—The Poster Rex Manifesto by Lars Harmsen and Markus Lange which we only recently published, the beautifully crafted Timewarp by Lorenzo Petrantoni, 100 Beste Plakate 23, and of course our Slanted Magazine #42—Books, featured at the booth of Stiftung Buchkunst on the Shortlist of the competition for the most beautiful German books, as well as COLLISION and Das Plakat Isst eine Fläche. on the Longlist.

As a publisher, our visit to the fair proved fruitful, gaining lots of insights and inspiration from the thousands of exhibitors and books and magazines on display! As always it is an exciting experience to witness all the new trends, techniques, and possibilities in the book universe.

Call for Submissions: Yearbook of Lettering 2

Posted on by Linus Haug

After the amazing response to Yearbook of Lettering #1—with 134 artists from 35 countries, rave press reviews, and tons of social media buzz—we’re back for round two! Yearbook of Lettering #2 is set to drop in autumn 2025, showcasing the very best in lettering from around the globe, from classic calligraphy to bold street art and graffiti. Ready to be part of it? Get your submissions in and help us make this edition even bigger and better!

In Yearbook of Lettering #2, each artist is given at least one full page, where only their artwork is featured, allowing the visuals to take center stage. The clean, open design ensures that the lettering speaks for itself, giving space for the unique styles and techniques to shine.

What truly sets this edition apart is the extensive index, which holds all the essential details—artist backgrounds, style descriptions, materials used, and contact information. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or searching for the perfect artist, the comprehensive, alphabetized index makes it easy to explore the talent behind each piece.

Designed as both a source of inspiration for graphic designers and agencies, and a practical guide for clients seeking the perfect artist or style, Yearbook of Lettering #2 will appeal to anyone interested in the vibrant world of contemporary lettering. We can’t wait to bring this second edition to life with your incredible work!

lt is possible to book one single page or up to three spreads! The presented artworks may not have been published earlier than 2020. Artworks can be submitted via our website until December 8th, 2024. 

Producing a book like this requires significant resources. We believe in its sustainability and the real value it offers, which is why we aim to make it accessible to as many people as possible. To maintain high quality, we ask participants to contribute a small production fee to help cover costs (while still maintaining a selection process). This fee is intentionally kept low to encourage broad participation, especially from young artists, and covers only a small portion of the overall project costs. In return, each participant will receive a free printed copy of the book (plus shipping).

It is especially important to us to give the younger generation of lettering artists access to this opportunity. That’s why we offer students (with proof of enrollment) a 30% discount on the regular price. All submissions will be reviewed by a curatorial board of professional lettering artists to ensure quality. Please note, we reserve the right to reject submissions that do not meet our standards, which include technical aspects, originality, depth, context, and more. We strive to maintain a high level of quality throughout the content, so each submission is carefully reviewed, and we provide personal feedback on every application.

Early Bird rate (EB), excl. tax, available until November 20th, 2024
Regular rate (R), excl. tax, available until December 8th, 2024 

1 page: € 99.– (EB) + Vat / € 119.– + Vat (R)
= 1 Artwork

2 pages / 1 spread: € 189.– (EB) + Vat / € 209.– + Vat (R)
= 2 Artworks (big) OR 1 Artwork big + up to 4 small ones

4 pages / 2 spreads + 1 IG Story: € 339.– (EB) + Vat / € 369.– + Vat (R)
= 4 Artworks (big) OR 2 Artworks big + up to 8 small ones

6 pages / 3 spreads + 2 IG Story: € 499.– (EB) + Vat / € 539.– + Vat(R)
= 6 Artworks (big) OR 3 Artworks big + up to 12 small ones

For those who book two double pages or more, we are pleased to offer a feature in the form of an Instagram Story on the Slanted Publishers channel, which currently has 127K followers. This is a great opportunity to share your work with a broader audience at no additional cost.

Get detailed information about the book, special rates for multiple spreads in combination with all Slanted online features, and our media reach from this PDF. 

HOW TO reserve and book a space: 

1. Send an email to [email protected] with the number of spreads you would like to book and links or samples of the artworks, so we can review them and get back to you.
2. Receive a link and pay the submission fee.
3. Now your space is booked. We’II get in touch with more information about the upload.
4. Upload the requested files and information until December 8th, 2024 (latest!) and you will be guided step-by-step through the process.

Join Now!

© Visuals by Xesta Studio, Dave Towers, Ken Barber, Büro Ufho, Julie Solvstrom, Merle Michaelis, Luke Smile, Jan Šabach, Johannes Schleicher, Ying Chang and Melissa Pierce

Principles of Serendipity

Posted on by Linus Haug

The Principles of Serendipity conference, taking place on November 8th and 9th, 2024, will bring together a diverse range of perspectives from designers, artists, and theorists who are deeply engaged in (expanded) graphic design and creative research, with the aim of advancing and critically examining the field of communication design. The conference speakers represent a broad spectrum of international design discourse, using design as a tool for knowledge production and engagement with visual culture. Speakers include: Anke Haarmann, Anne Büttner, James Langdon, Nina Sieverding, Tereza Ruller, Laucke Siebein, Maureen Mooren and Na Kim.

The hosts interpret the title Principles of Serendipity as both a core research principle and a theme for the conference: not all discoveries are planned or predictable; often, it is the open and exploratory approach to a research subject that leads to valuable insights and creative outcomes. The conference is free! Please register by November 4th at [email protected]

Principles of Serendipity 

Where?
Hochschule der Bildenden Künste Saar, Galerie, Aula, Foyer,
Keplerstraße 3–5, 66117 Saarbrücken

When?
November 8th to 9th, 2024

Further information here.

Film Festival Cologne

Posted on by Linus Haug

The colorful, radiant logo of a stylized sun on the cover says it better than words: it’s time to shine. Culture not only fulfills the task of enlightenment, it also offers the opportunity to let our creativity and our hopeful side shine. And they do: as every year, the brilliant minds of contemporary filmmakers and artists gather at the Film Festival Cologne. They let us dive deep into their craft, their inspirations and the dynamic interplay of storytelling and aesthetics.

The annual publication FFCGN – Die Macht der Bilder Vol. 4 accompanies the festival with many photos, insightful essays and intimate interviews. Through the lens of cinema, the editors provide an insight into the diverse perspectives and innovative approaches that shape today’s cultural landscape and pop culture. Whether the filmmakers are exploring themes such as identity, social justice or the human condition, they illuminate the world with their unique views and perspectives and invite us to accompany them.

FFCGN — Die Macht der Bilder Vol. 4

Publisher: Slanted Publishers
Editor in Chief: Martina Richter
Art Director: Holger Risse
Editors: Emilia Stein (Head), Elmar Freels, Sven von Reden
Design: Lena Buhl, Juliane Lipp, Slanted Publishers
Publishing Direction: Lars Harmsen, Julia Kahl
Release: October 2024
Format: 16 × 24 cm
Volume: 176 pages
Language: German, English
Printer: Stober Medien, Germany
Workmanship: Softcover with flaps, Swiss brochure, thread-stitching, full-color printing
ISBN: 978-3-948440-75-6
Price: €18.– (DE)

BUY

Shooting for the Stars

Posted on by Juliane Lipp

Last week we had the great opportunity to attend an ADC Design Talk while being in New York City: the book launch of Shooting for the Stars by design legend Richard Danne, who captured his life’s work in a comprehensive book.

Richard Danne is best known for co-creating NASA’s iconic “worm” logo, a minimalist masterpiece that has left a lasting mark on modern design. His pioneering work spans decades, with notable projects for organizations like FIT, Paramount, and AT&T, showcasing his visionary influence on visual culture. At the event, Danne shared insights from his groundbreaking career, which has left a lasting impact on modern design, along with humorous anecdotes and personal insights.

What left a special impression was his answer to the question of what he (as a designer) does NOT want to do anymore (after he has listed all the things he would still love to do): he does not want to stop. Even after 90 years in this world and many eventful years in the creative industry, he has no intention of stopping and putting an end to his creative career.

As a former president of AIGA and a tireless advocate for the power of design in business, Danne’s work has inspired generations of designers. Shooting for the Stars honored his enduring legacy and the profound influence he continues to have on the world of design.

The One Club for Creativity supports and celebrates the global creative community, believing that creativity drives business success. It fosters spaces for writers, designers, technologists, and artists to thrive, promoting diversity and collaboration. By connecting established leaders with emerging talents, the organization nurtures growth and innovation. As a non-profit, The One Club reinvests all its resources into inspiring and strengthening the creative world. Thanks for having us!

Making of Slanted Magazine #44—Type Fashion

Posted on by Julia Kahl

Exciting News! Slanted Magazine #44—TYPE FASHION is in production and explores the intersection of typography and fashion! This issue pushes the boundaries of conventional design, using cutting-edge typography as a dynamic canvas for fashion expression. Expect bold messages, conceptual art, unconventional positioning, and off-road applications that challenge the fashion industry’s status quo.

Printed in spot colors only by HKS, this issue features a radical 2-color canvas with sharp embellishments. Printed by our long-time partner Stober Medien and supported by Inapa Deutschland, it also includes an 8-page cover and open thread-stitching, showcasing its striking red block, beautifully crafted by Buchbinderei Spinner.

Preorder your copy now—either as a single issue or together with the limited special edition bag by Ucon Acrobatics! Or, subscribe to Slanted Magazine and always get it right at release!

Magazine 🔗
Mag + Bag 🔗
Subscription 🔗

Primarium

Posted on by Linus Haug

In early 2022, TypeTogether launched Primarium, a groundbreaking project exploring how Latin script-based handwriting is taught to primary school students across five continents and over 40 countries. This freely accessible resource offers unique insights for both typographic and educational communities.

As digital devices dominate classrooms, handwriting education remains a debated topic. Experts discuss its cognitive benefits and effective teaching methods. Primarium highlights the diverse, evolving approaches to handwriting instruction globally, offering an in-depth analysis of how children learn to read and write, from curricula to classroom methods.

The research is extensive, involving legislative documents, curricula, academic studies, and interviews with teachers, parents, and designers. This data serves as a foundation for future studies. A key result is Playwrite, an open-source tool that creates country-specific handwriting fonts with customizable features like stroke speed, extender size, weight, and slant.

Developed with support from Google Fonts, Brazil’s Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), and global collaborators, Primarium showcases the power of cross-cultural cooperation. It’s a valuable resource for educators and typographers, documenting current handwriting models and setting the stage for further exploration.

Further information here.

STUCK Magazine

Posted on by Linus Haug

STUCK magazine, known for its exploration of art and culture, will release its third print edition centered on the theme of nostalgia in art on July 31st, 2024. Since its inception, STUCK Magazine has collaborated with diverse artists to delve into their creative processes, challenges, and successes, aiming to inspire readers to overcome creative blocks.

The current issue titled “all that is new is well-forgotten old” is available nationally and internationally and explores how looking to the past inspires artists and influences their creative processes. The magazine showcases a variety of artistic forms from different cultural perspectives. Contributors include Tomohiro Kono, a Japanese hair and wig artist, digital artist, and video game hacker Hikikomori, and Tim Jacobus, renowned for illustrating the GooseBumps series covers.

Marius Thielmann, STUCK Magazine’s editor in chief, highlighted the issue’s integration of concept into design, drawing inspiration from old Playstation and Playboy magazines of the 80s and 90s for its layout, graphic design, paper quality, and additional features like a sticker pack and fold-out pages. This blend of nostalgia with progressive editorial and creative direction enhances the magazine’s appeal.

The edition features eight artists through in-depth interviews, articles, analyses, and portraits across its 100 pages. STUCK Magazine examines personal and generational meanings of nostalgia, its conscious and unconscious incorporation in art, and its elusive signs. An accompanying essay guides readers through the magazine towards an open conclusion. Additionally, interdisciplinary artists have contributed non-commercial advertisements, completing the publication between two selectable covers.

Further information here.

Adobe MAX 2024

Posted on by Linus Haug

Ignite your imagination, explore the latest trends and tools, and learn from each other in a spirit of inspiration and collaboration at Adobe MAX 2024!

The world’s leading creative conference will be held October 14–16, 2024. Whether you’re a designer, illustrator, photographer, social media content creator, video pro, or want to know more about 3D and generative AI tools, join the Abode MAX 2024 creative conference in Miami Beach or online. Learn new skills, be inspired, and connect with other creatives during three days of sessions and labs, keynotes, Sneaks, and more. Speakers at Adobe MAX 2024 include Jason Naylor, Devon Rodriguez, Awkwafina, Cey Adams, Emonee LaRussa and many more. Preconference courses provide in-depth training and will be held October 12th and 13th, in-person only. The in-person conference will be held October 14th to 16th.

Adobe MAX 2024

Where?
Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami Beach

When?
October 12–13, 2024, Preconference
October 14–16, 2024, Conference

Further information here.

ADOPT A FACT

Posted on by Linus Haug

CORRECTIV publishes investigative articles, conducts extensive fact-checking and offers educational programs for the entire public – in a time, where Germany’s right-wing party ‘AfD’ experiences a horrific rise. The keyword: “Secret plan against Germany” – the research that sparked nation-wide protests all over Germany and was covered in The Guardian, BBC, CNN and several other media outlets across the world. Now CORRECTIV is breaking new ground by relying on the power of many. And art: on the 12th of September, a crowdfunding campaign was launched on the Startnext platform, which is accompanied by the art initiative ADOPT A FACT. Renowned artists, like Eike König, Vera Kochubey, Monty Richthofen or Liana Finck as well as upcoming creatives and dedicated students, are helping CORRECTIV to raise money for independent journalism. Their work translates the facts uncovered by CORRECTIV, based on topics closest to their heart, into art.

The crowdfunding campaign runs from September 12th to October 23rd 2024. Supporters will receive the exclusive artworks in the form of posters, postcards and digital downloads as a thank you. The donations will enable further research in the topics covered by CORRECTIV.

Artworks shown: Cosima Kaibel, Eike König, Lydia Wagner, Monty Richthofen and Marlon Bellet.

Further information here. 

FORMAT(S)

Posted on by Linus Haug

Since its founding in 2010, Central Vapeur has been a key player in supporting and promoting illustration and comics. Now, their exciting event FORMAT(S) offers an opportunity to explore the world of graphic design, bringing together diverse creative voices and connecting them with the public. This unique event fosters an open dialogue between the artistic realm of graphic design and everyday audiences. It is a must-attend for design enthusiasts, professionals, and anyone curious about visual culture.

FORMAT(S) is an annual graphic design event that welcomes everyone, completely free of charge. It invites attendees to discover and interact with some of the most innovative figures in graphic design, spanning a wide variety of practices. The event is built on the idea of creating conversations between the public and the creative minds behind graphic design. From bold posters and typography to cutting-edge digital media, FORMAT(S) showcases a wide range of artistic expressions and techniques. Held in Strasbourg, a vibrant hub of creativity, FORMAT(S) offers exhibitions, workshops, and more, reflecting the city’s dynamic design scene. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or simply curious, FORMAT(S) is the perfect opportunity to explore fresh ideas and cutting-edge graphic design.

Thanks to the hard work of over 40 volunteers, FORMAT(S) thrives as a community-driven event. It is supported by key partners, including the Grand Est Region, the City and Eurometropolis of Strasbourg, the European Community of Alsace, and many prestigious institutions such as Le Signe National Center for Graphic Design, CNAP, the Swiss Consulate in Strasbourg, HEAR, and the University of Strasbourg.

More information here.

FORMAT(S) 2024 Graphic Identity © Tristesse

Weltformat Graphic Design Festival

Posted on by Linus Haug

This year marks the 16th edition of the Weltformat Graphic Design Festival in Lucerne. The theme for this year’s festival is: How to Start.

As Weltformat Festival 2024 approaches, it focuses on a question that designers across all disciplines face time and again: “How to Start.” How do you even begin? It’s a challenge that most creatives encounter at the start of every project. Does a mood board help, or is that too much too soon? Should you begin with rough sketches, or is it better to stick with brainstorming—complete with circles and arrows? Questions like these often pile up as you start a new project. Then—bam!—the deadline is next week.

This year’s festival highlights starting a career or new project in graphic design and asks what can be learned from established studios. How did they start out? Which milestones were key in their leap to self-employment? Creative projects also don’t always get off to a smooth start. What methods help creatives dive into new projects quickly? How do you deal with the fear of the blank page? Are there techniques to overcome this hurdle? Or is it all about finding one magical idea—or is the process more important for determining quality?

On October 5th, 2024, the festival will kick off another exciting edition, confronting the fear of the beginning. Under the motto “Just Start,” it will break through the hurdles of starting, overcome early challenges, and show how designers tackle these obstacles. This year’s Weltformat Festival promises to offer inspiring insights through five exhibitions, workshops, and valuable networking opportunities. We’re excited to embark on this journey together at the festival’s opening.

Weltformat Graphic Design Festival 

Where?
Luzern

When?
October 5th to 13th, 2024

Further information here.

Call for Submissions: Slanted Magazine #45—AAP

Posted on by Julia Kahl

We are excited to announce an open call for submissions for the 45th issue of Slanted Magazine, created in collaboration with Artist Archive Publications (AAP) in Munich, led by publisher, artist, and art educator Hubert Kretschmer. For this special edition, we are seeking contemporary and historical zines, booklets, publications, and printed matter that explore themes such as gender, feminism, sex, eroticism, love, pornography, intimacy, nudity, LGBTQ+, femininity, body image, emancipation, relationships, polyamory, sexuality, punk, cyberfeminism, sexual freedom, and beauty.

Since the early 1980s, AAP has collected, archived, and preserved a diverse range of artist publications, including magazines, flyers, artist books, zines, multiples, and posters. Today, the archive is home to over 89,988 registered items, making it one of the largest private collections of artist books and zines worldwide. Archives are more than just collections—they are windows to the past, keys to understanding the present, and vital resources for future generations.

We invite you to become part of this extraordinary archive and submit your work to be considered for inclusion in Slanted Magazine #45. Selected submissions will not only be featured in this exciting issue but also added to the AAP archive, contributing to its ongoing legacy. Essays or articles are also very welcome, please submit your idea via email! 

HOW TO SUBMIT

Send your physical submissions by October 18, 2024 (latest arrival date) with the subject “Slanted Magazine #45 to:

AAP Archive Artist Publications
Hubert Kretschmer
Türkenstraße 60 UG
D-80799 Munich
Germany
Phone: +49 (0) 89 12345 30
Email: [email protected]

We eagerly await new additions to this one-of-a-kind archive and are thrilled to craft an inspiring edition of Slanted Magazine. Those whose work is selected will be notified, and the issue will be published in late April 2025. Participants featured in the issue will receive an exclusive discount code for ordering their copy.

Be part of the archive, be part of the future!

📅 Submission Deadline: Friday, 18.10.2024
📅 Publication: April 2025

Pop-Up-Store / 7×7

Posted on by Linus Haug

The Pop-Up Store is back in 2024! In October, Karlsruhe’s cultural and creative economy will once again showcase itself right in the city center. Following the success of past Pop-Up Stores, the ground floor of the Karlsruhe Regional Council will transform into a display window for the cultural and creative economy. The K³ Office of Cultural and Creative Economy and the Karlsruhe Regional Council, supported by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor, and Tourism, invite you to experience a wide range of products and services up close. Over 50 exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase themselves, their businesses, and their products. The Pop-Up Store features booths where exhibitors are present, as well as a communal area where products from various creative professionals can be purchased.

Earlier the same week you can explore the cultural and creative economy in Karlsruhe at 7×7.

7×7 is a collaboration between the K³ Office, the ausgeschlachtet e.V., and the Tollhaus Cultural Center. This edition of 7×7 is part of the KIT Science Week, focusing on the theme of “Sustainability.” Seven creative professionals from Karlsruhe, including Slanted Founder Julia Kahl will have seven minutes each to present themselves and their businesses. They can use slideshows, speeches, unplugged concerts, or small shows—anything creative is allowed! The evening promises to be as imaginative as the industry itself.

If you’re interested in getting to know creative businesses, learning about innovative business models, exploring the cultural and creative economy, networking in Karlsruhe, or simply enjoying an entertaining evening, you’re invited to attend. The event takes place annually at the Tollhaus Cultural Center.

7×7

Where?
Tollhaus, Karlsruhe

When?
October 7th 2024, 7 to 9 pm

Further information here.

Pop-Up Store

Where?
Regierungspräsidium Karlsruhe

When?
October 11th to October 13th 2024, 2 to 6 pm

Further information here.

REBEL PRINTS—The Poster Rex Manifesto

Posted on by Linus Haug

Lars Harmsen and Markus Lange, the visionary duo behind Poster Rex, know about the power of signs. Their posters combine contemporary aesthetics with uncomfortable images from our turbulent times, often in a political and/or socio-critical context. Poster Rex represents pop culture and the enduring strength of creativity and human resilience, the rebellious spirit of Poster Rex provokes and awakens hope.

This is evidenced not only by the screen-printed posters but also by the powerful statements of over 25 designers and artists they’ve collaborated and printed with on-site, including notable figures such as Peter Bankov (CZ), Edwin van Gelder (NL), Mirko Borsche (DE), Götz Grämlich (DE), Ariane Spanier (DE), Officina Arara (PT), Yetkin Başarır (TR), and many more …

REBEL PRINTS—The Poster Rex Manifesto is a selection of screen-printed posters created over the last 10 years in collaboration with Poster Rex and artists from around the world.

Unique original screenprints from the Poster Rex sessions will be offered exclusively in the Slanted Shop to accompany the book. More info here.

REBEL PRINTS—The Poster Rex Manifesto

Publisher: Slanted Publishers
Editors, Design & Concept: Lars Harmsen, Markus Lange
Release: September 2024
Format: 21 × 27 cm
Volume: 288 pages
Language: English
Printing: full-color offset printing with fluorescent and silver spot colors, Offizin Scheufele, Germany
Paper: Changing uncoated papers by Metapaper
Workmanship: Softcover with flaps, open thread-stitching
ISBN: 978-3-948440-80-0
Price: €42.– (DE)

BUY

The Complete Work in Progress

Posted on by spaconandx

Spacon & X, the Copenhagen-based design and architecture studio renowned for their interdisciplinary approach, is excited to announce the launch of The Complete Work in Progress, an experimental in-house publication marking the studio’s 10th anniversary. This one-of-a-kind exploratory publication embodies the studio’s ethos, merging different disciplines to create spatial experiences that defy traditional design norms.

The Complete Work in Progress is more than just a retrospective; it is an open invitation to explore Spacon & X’s journey over the past decade. Arranged in an office-core inspired binder with removable chapters, the publication aims to reflect the studio’s commitment to fluidity and experimentation in design. Giving a second life to undesired office ring binders, the work challenges the conventional architecture publication and presentation format, offering readers an honest experience of the studio’s triumphs, beliefs, values, and insights.

Ultimately, the “book” mirrors the studio’s at-home creative process, radically questioning the lifeline of the design industry and shaping it to fit a fluid, interdisciplinary approach that embraces continuous evolution and authentic storytelling. Too often, architects complete projects and move on without revisiting them, but in this new age of circularity, Spacon & X seeks to create a space where every element can be re-evaluated and celebrated. The publication stands as a testament to a new era of design thinking, where the lifecycle of ideas is accounted for, and sustainability is integral to every project, value, and iteration. Collaboration is key in this process, celebrating the studio’s individual contributions over the past decade while also highlighting the collective achievements of the team.

“The Complete Work in Progress reflects our more responsible and dynamic practice, where designs can evolve with their contexts and ongoing dialog is encouraged between creatives at every scale. The ringbinder is a vulnerable invitation in a rather traditional industry to rethink the ways in which we present, celebrate, and think about our designs, together.” — Nour Fakharany, Creative Strategist, Spacon & X.

The publication is a celebration of Spacon & X’s distinctive approach to design—one that integrates various creative fields, fosters collaboration, and continually challenges industry standards. The experimental format and content highlight the studio’s commitment to authenticity, creativity, and ongoing innovation. In truth, it is a letter of love to 10 years of design: learning, making, celebrating, failing, and sharing that in every way.

FC Sans Pauli

Posted on by Linus Haug

FC St. Pauli, known for its unconventional approach both on and off the field, has introduced its new custom typeface, FC Sans Pauli. Created by contemporary branding agency Karl Anders in collaboration with Christoph Koeberlin, this typeface replaces the previous Futura font. It reflects the club’s unique identity and rebellious spirit.

FC Sans Pauli stands out with its characteristic leftward slant, visually representing the club’s commitment to being “different.” More than just a font, it’s a statement and attitude that embodies FC St. Pauli’s unwavering character and deeply ingrained convictions. Left-leaning and inclusive, the typeface offers 13 styles, including a Copy variant that ranges from Light to Bold. It includes jersey numbers, a tape style, OpenType features, and alternative glyphs. This provides a dynamic typographic toolbox for a vibrant club. The extensive Latin-S glyph set supports 100 additional languages, extending FC Sans Pauli’s reach to 200 million more speakers than typical glyph sets.

This typeface isn’t just a design—it reflects the indomitable spirit and core beliefs FC St. Pauli has always championed. “With FC Sans Pauli, we’ve created a typeface that is highly activist,” says Claudia Fischer-Appelt, founder and Executive Creative Director of Karl Anders. “It is an expression of the club’s deepest convictions and paves the way for further independence of the brand.”

Christoph Koeberlin, one of Europe’s leading type designers, collaborated on the development of FC Sans Pauli. Known for his work on the font FF Mark, Koeberlin designed a font that is technically precise and memorable. The typeface is being used immediately in all of the club’s communications, strengthening FC St. Pauli’s brand identity. This marks another step in the club’s mission to promote alternative football culture and make its values accessible to a wider audience. “This typeface doesn’t just reflect attitude—it is an attitude,” says FC St. Pauli’s Brand Director, Martin Drust. “It allows us to move from leasing to ownership, creating lasting brand value.”

Lars Kreyenhagen, founder and Executive Strategy Director at Karl Anders, highlights the brand’s interactive potential. “Our brand thrives by being used by many people. We want to encourage that engagement,” he says. “The new typeface strengthens the brand’s identity and recognition while simplifying its use. This will make it easier for those involved to support the club’s sporting, social, and political mission.”

The team at Karl Anders responsible for this project includes Claudia Fischer-Appelt (ECD), Marcel Häusler (CD), Gregor Frotscher (CD), Henry Monse (AD), Anna Hilgenstöhler (Copy & Concept), and Lars Kreyenhagen (ESD). They worked closely with Christoph Koeberlin, who designed the typeface.

At FC St. Pauli, brand management is led by Martin Drust, Managing Director of Branding and Marketing.

Rid the Grid

Posted on by Linus Haug
As part of the AGI Open 2024 conference, the exhibition Rid the Grid: Women in Swiss Graphic Design: 1900–1980 will be on view from September 15th to October 6th in the exhibition space of the School of Design Basel on the Dreispitz Campus.

Since the late 19th century, numerous women have pursued careers in graphic design, contributing to a wide range of creative fields, including poster design, book illustration, advertising, packaging, toy design, and typography. Many of these women established their own studios and worked with renowned clients. However, despite their significant contributions, many female graphic designers have been overlooked in the history of design, and their biographies and works have largely faded into obscurity. The exhibition Rid the Grid seeks to bring these forgotten pioneers back into the spotlight. Rid the Grid showcases the diverse work of twelve female graphic designers who launched their careers in Switzerland between 1900 and 1980. Additionally, an outdoor poster exhibition highlights the work of twenty more female graphic designers.

Among the featured designers are Maja Allenbach, April Greiman, Helene Haasbauer-Wallrath, Dora Hauth-Trachsler, Ursula Hiestand, Anna Monika Jost, Lora Lamm, Warja Lavater, Thérèse Moll, Nelly Rudin, Rosmarie Tissi, Lill Tschudi, and many others.

Find more information here.

Fincker Font Cuisine

Posted on by Linus Haug

After about six years as a freelance type designer, Julien Fincker is launching his type foundry Fincker Font Cuisine. He is fully embracing his passion for letters and typefaces with a brand new website and online shop. From retail fonts to customized solutions, he offers everything a typographic enthusiast desires. Julien is also a fan of fine dining and sees many parallels between cooking and designing fonts. It’s the attention to detail in the preparation that makes all the difference—hence the name: Fincker Font Cuisine.

Especially interesting and touch is Julien’s idea for his foundry’s branding, which is inspired by his family history: since the early 20th century, his ancestors ran a delicatessen butcher shop with elaborate branding for the time. The branding was largely created by Alsatian artist “Hansi” (Jean-Jacques Waltz †1951). Hansi designed a lasting symbol featuring a silhouette of two butchers—Julien’s great-grandfather and his brother—in Colmar, France. Over the years, numerous advertising posters, packaging, and business stationery were created, some of which remain in the family’s possession, even though the butcher shop no longer exists.

Today, a large sign with the silhouette of the two butchers still adorns the façade of the former business, reading “Fincker Frères Colmar.” It has even become a tourist attraction. Fincker Font Cuisine’s logo pays homage to this symbol, updated and modernized for the new brand. The name Font Cuisine is also a nod to the butcher theme and retains the initials “F.F.C.” (Fincker Frères Colmar) becomes Fincker Font Cuisine. The simplified F.F.C. logo is used for particularly small applications. This marks the completion of a full circle for Julien, and it is a special honor for him to continue his family’s legacy in a new form, though in a more delicate craft. Fortunately, the butcher brothers will never know that one of their descendants has chosen to stop eating meat.

Find out more about Fincker Font Cuisine here.

Best German Book Design 2024

Posted on by Linus Haug

We warmly congratulate Kaj Lehmann, whose book Holy Smoke: Censers Across Cultures (published by Hirmer Verlag, Munich) has been honored with the Stiftung Buchkunst Prize, which comes with a € 10,000 award! Congratulations on this fantastic design and achievement!

Holy Smoke stands out for its innovative design, where packaging becomes a metaphor. The book is wrapped in carbon paper, encircled by a glowing orange band. As readers unwrap the band and remove the fluttering paper, their hands become smudged with black ink, leaving visible traces on the gray fabric cover, making each copy a one-of-a-kind piece. The book explores incense vessels and their roles in various religions and historical eras, emphasizing how ritual smoke serves as a medium for human communication with higher powers.

The award ceremony took place on Friday evening, September 6th, 2024, at the Museum Angewandte Kunst in Frankfurt. Birte Kreft, managing director of Stiftung Buchkunst, and Dr. Joachim Unseld, publisher of Frankfurter Verlagsanstalt and chairman of the foundation, presented the prize in a formal ceremony at the museum.

Jury member Markus Klose praised the book during his speech, saying, “This book is a delight, something that could have graced Louis XV’s famous desk at Versailles. It’s pure joy to flip through, to admire, and to dive into such an unfamiliar yet fascinating world. It’s a splendid, unique, bold work—Holy Smoke is the result of masterful craftsmanship.”

Birte Kreft, speaking on behalf of the Stiftung Buchkunst, highlighted the courage required in both design and production, stating, “The Stiftung Buchkunst Prize celebrates bold decisions in book design and manufacturing. Holy Smoke achieves this beautifully: the distinctive packaging for a book about religious incense engages readers right from the start, leaving them with ‘smoky hands’ as they discover its contents. It’s an inspiring example of what great ideas can accomplish in book production.”

The book was selected by a five-member jury from the 25 titles shortlisted as “Best German Book Design,” chosen from 600 submissions earlier in June. In addition to Holy Smoke, the Stiftung Buchkunst also honored the winners of the Sponsorship Prize for Young Book Design during the Friday evening ceremony. The € 2,000 prizes were awarded to three innovative titles that rethink the book as a medium: Umsatzübersicht by Anja Dietmann and Jonas Beuchert, A Book about Hair by Elfi Handina Murandu, and Wölfinnen by Johanna Behrens.

Forward Festival Berlin 2024

Posted on by Slanted editors

The Forward Festival 2024 in Berlin concluded as a significant success, leaving attendees inspired and buzzing with creative energy. Held at Haus der Kulturen der Welt on August 29th and 30th, the sold-out event attracted a large crowd of designers, artists, and creatives from around the world. It featured a diverse range of speakers, workshops, and interactive sessions, offering a mix of innovative and hands-on experiences.

One of the festival’s main highlights was its focus on AI in creative processes, which sparked both excitement and debate. CGI artist Ariel Lu delivered a memorable talk, exploring how she uses the AI tool Houdini to inject vulnerability and emotion into her work. Another standout presentation came from Shane Griffin of GRIF Studio, who shared his approach to merging graphic and interior design with technological innovation, offering valuable insights for those eager to explore the intersection of art and technology. Gavin Strange shared his tips on how to unleash creativity in his presentation on Friday evening, reminding us to view the world through the eyes of a child.

In addition to the captivating talks, the exhibition space of the Forward Festival 2024 was a hub of interaction, with attendees engaging in hands-on workshops, discussing future trends, and experimenting with the latest design technology. The active exchange among attendees allowed people from various design fields to connect, leading to interesting and engaging conversations.

The Forward Festival’s creative and collaborative atmosphere enabled participants to connect, exchange ideas, and immerse themselves in Berlin’s vibrant creative scene while also surprising its international audience. With the festival’s diverse offerings—from tufting rugs and printing to browsing through books and exploring data visualization and experience design—it provided something for everyone, solidifying its status as a must-attend event for professionals in the creative industries. We’re excited for many more years of Forward Festival!

Text and images by: Greta Landmann

Forbes Ukraine

Posted on by Linus Haug

On the cover of this edition of Forbes Ukraine, neurotypical artist Anna Sapon represents the atelienormalno workshop, a space where artists, including those with Down syndrome, collaborate. Anna has reimagined the Forbes logo, symbolizing how in a society that values extraordinary ideas, freedom, and acceptance of differences, the unreal becomes achievable. This year, her embroidered artwork, adorned with insightful text, represents Ukraine at the Venice Biennale. In Forbes’ 107-year history, its logo has evolved 18 times, but never before in such a groundbreaking and liberated form. Anna is among 10 artists whose works grace the pages of this printed magazine.

The issue’s theme, “Growing Up,” reflects societal transformation—from youthful maximalism to maturity and self-awareness. Delving into this edition of Forbes Ukraine demands your time, attention, and openness to new perspectives, promising an invaluable experience. Highlighted within are works by prominent artists Zhanna Kadyrova, Oleksiy Say, Tiberiy Silvashi, Vlada Ralko, Yaroslav Futymsky, Inha Levi, Pavlo Makov, Alevtina Kakhidze, Sasha Kurmaz, and atelienormalno. Each has pushed the boundaries of imagination, offering a unique artistic lens for readers.

Creative Director: Maksym Zoloiedov
Art Director: Oleksandr Skorychenko
Illustration: Anna Sapon

Timewarp

Posted on by Linus Haug

Lorenzo Petrantoni, graphic artist, illustrator, designer, and artist from Milan, Italy, known for his reinterpretations of historical figures from the 19th and 20th century, presents his particular personal aesthetic in Timewarp. His works are created by using 19th-century engravings from old books he finds in bookshops, libraries, markets and fairs around the world. Using hand-made collages, Petrantoni combines and assembles these engravings to create unique and striking images.

His compositions have become iconic, used by renowned brands like Coca Cola, Nespresso, New York Times, Newsweek, Samsonite, Vogue, Vanity Fair, and many more, as well as museums, publishers, and galleries worldwide. Thanks to his extraordinary creativity and technical mastery, Petrantoni gives vintage images new life and meaning, transforming them into works of contemporary art.

Timewarp presents these works from recent years and is a fascinating journey through time, where the past merges with the present through the creative genius of Lorenzo Petrantoni.

Timewarp

Publisher: Slanted Publishers
Design & Concept: Lorenzo Petrantoni
Translation: Jennifer Coe
Release: September 2024
Format: 21.6 × 29.3 cm
Volume: 192 pages
Language: English
Printing: full-color offset printing with silver spot color, Stober Medien, Germany
Workmanship: 6-page cover, no binding, black rubber band, silver hot-foil embossing
ISBN: 978-3-948440-74-9
Price: €35.– (DE)

BUY

ISType 2024

Posted on by Linus Haug

The ninth edition of the Istanbul Type Conference (ISType) is set to return on November 2nd, focusing on the graphic applications of typography—both static and dynamic. This year’s event continues to explore various aspects of typography, type design, and diverse scripts essential to typographic content. The theme for the ninth ISType conference is “Text-ure,” emphasizing the textural qualities of typography and its graphic applications across different scales.

The program kicks off with Tobias Frere-Jones sharing insights from his personal journey in type design. Ulrike Rausch will then delve into crafting and programming handwriting fonts. Marc Schütz will focus on the creative aspects of digital toolmaking for his studio’s design tasks. Astrid Stavro will explore both well-known and lesser-known qualities of type as an image. Eben Sorkin will guide us through the meticulous process of designing type for various dimensions, both macro and micro. Bartu Başaran will share his experiences in tracing the textures of the monumental inscriptions of Perge. Albert Jan Pool will reveal stories about how his encounter with DIN 1451 lettering models led to surprising discoveries. Kostas Bartsokas will invite the audience to explore the textural qualities of type-making from various scripts while highlighting retaining creative expression without compromising balance. Lastly, Liza Enebeis will explore the performance of typographic textures in sound and motion.

Following the full-day conference, there will be a hands-on type design workshop on November 3rd led by Georg Stiefert, the creator of the Glyphs app.

More information and ticket purchases here.