University News Last updated 05 August 2015
Ivan Chermayeff's designs for iconic 20th century brands, including Mobil, National Geographic and Armani Exchange, are to make a rare appearance outside the US at a major exhibition at Birmingham City University.
Parkside Gallery Exhibition Manager John Hall said: "This collection has only been seen in the UK once before, so we are delighted and honoured to host this celebration of images that are ingrained in our psyche.
"Chermayeff's great skill lies in creating clever images that convey layers of information and portray a corporate's brand reputation in a memorable way. His work often has undercurrents of the political and commercial trends of the era that he was designing in which are used to great effect."
Acclaimed by his peers, the award-winning 84-year-old designer, illustrator and artist is seen as a design hero for generations of artists. Born in London 1932, Ivan emigrated to America during the war with his family. Working initially with Robert Brownjohn, the creator of the film titles for 'From Russia with Love', Chermayeff then formed a partnership with fellow Yale student Tom Geismar.
They set up their own corporate design agency Chermayeff & Geismar to work on a large range of projects including book jackets, signage, museums and exhibitions. One of their clients for more than 30 years is Mobil. On designing their corporate logo Chermayeff said: "The goal is always to make something simple and memorable, you must be as clear and direct as possible. The red O of Mobil was designed to whip out at you down the highway before you can even read the sign."
Ivan Chermayeff Posters runs at the Parkside Gallery from Monday 10 August to Sunday 6 September.