Simplicity, legibility, idea, and originality in book design. Four principles by Janusz Górski

Abstract

Some reflections have been presented on book design by Janusz Górski, an outstanding graphic artist, author, and publisher, as well as the head of the Book Design Studio at the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk. Górski’s path to professional maturity was shown, as well as his attitude to tradition and the history of the book. Górski is convinced that in design the main goal is not beauty, elegance, or crossing the established order in search of more attractive solutions. The most important is the reader and his reading comfort. Simplicity, legibility, originality, and idea are Górski’s “four rules” that he has developed over many years of professional practice. These principles are discussed in detail, illustrated with examples.

The most important source material on which this article is based is a recording containing an extensive interview of the author with Janusz Górski, as well as an autopsy analysis of over three hundred editions designed by him. Interviews and articles published elsewhere were also used.