In the days before “advertising art” became “graphic design,” Saul Bass was already a leader in the realm of visual iconography. A new monograph celebrates his life’s work, which spanned decades and media.
Chances are you’ve seen the work of Saul Bass in the last 24 hours.
Whether you’ve opened a phone bill from AT&T, consumed a bowl of oatmeal, or watched the shower scene from Psycho, you’ve encountered the powerful language of filmmaker, designer, and artist Saul Bass (1920–1996). A new monograph, compiled by his daughter, Jennifer Bass, and design historian Pat Kirkham, highlights the reductive, colorful style of Bass, and his wife and constant collaborator, Elaine.
A. Bass in his Hollywood office, 1960
B. Symbol for a veterinary hospital and pet insurance plan, 1954
C. Logo for Silverlake…