While the late Swiss type designer Adrian Frutiger (1928–2015) is best known for his renowned typefaces such as Univers, Avenir, and Frutiger, many people are less familiar with the symbols and monograms he designed. Here’s a selection from the sixties and seventies.
The quotes are from Frutiger’s book, Signs and Symbols (PDF via Monoskop), where he talks about the meaning behind basic shapes and their combinations.
“Triangles with a horizontal side form ideal backgrounds for signals (road signs, etc.) because of their symmetry. The triangle with a horizontal base conveys an impression of stability and permanence, like a pyramid.”
“The normal cross or plus sign is the absolute embodiment of symmetry. The four right-angled inner spaces located around a central point fix the sign to the paper so strongly that any idea of movement or rotation is impossible.”
“For primitive humans, the circle was certainly of strong symbolic importance due to its association with sun, moon, and stars. Today, it is still associated with wheels and gears of every kind. Without the ability to travel, modern life on the ever-widening area of our daily world would be hardly imaginable. We will therefore use the circle form to establish some differentiation in the psychological effect on the viewer.”
“Two circles arranged vertically evoke the idea of a hierarchy, with upper and lower; the effect of the sign is of a rather precarious balance and it is like a statue or monument.”
Signs and Symbols (PDF) was published in English by Van Nostrand Reinhold (New York), since acquired by Wiley.
More of Adrian Frutiger’s logos on Logobook, and more vintage logos in the archives.
Comments
Love this David. Just reminds you how much of an impact shapes can have in our everyday. Cheers!
What a great article David. I wasn’t aware that Adrian Frutiger made this gem of a book. It’s in my favourites now. Thanks!
Absolutely, Sunay. And Frank, a pleasure. Cheers for reading.
Beautiful work by the great man. And thank you David for sharing it.
Frutiger is still my ‘go to’ font, love it, so have just bought the book which I never knew existed! Thanks for putting me in the loop. ;-)
Yet another great example proving that even simplicity can create a place for the meaning.
The forst Prache de Franclieu logo reminds me of the golden ratio diagram: https://idfive.com/ideas/instantly-improve-brand-designs-golden-ratio/
We use Frutiger as our brand font and had no knowledge of the book. I was presented a copy at Christmas and also purchased a copy for the studio. Excellent, so thank you David for bringing it to my attention.
You’re very welcome, Marianne. Thanks for dropping by.
Love the signs and symbols.
This is the bomb, infinite thanks!