Anton Stankowski: Frei und Angewandt 1925–1995 [Free and Applied 1925-1995], 1996. Edited by Stefan von Wiese. Verlag Ernst & Sohn and Stankowski-Stiftung, Berlin. 13 x 10, two cloth, hardcover volumes with dust jackets, in slipcase [pp. 288 and pp. 234].
Features extensive black and white and color illustrations of Stanskowski’s work in Graphic Art, Paintings, Graphic Design, Conceptions, Architecture, Photography, and Documentation. Contributions by Hand Neuberg, Eugen Gomringer, Max Bense, Hans Hildebrandt, Eckhard Neumann, Fritz Seitz, and more. Volume 1 includes the Preface and multiple sections on Life and Oeuvre. Volume 2 contains Graphic design, Conceptions in architecture and public areas, Photography, and multiple sections of Documentation.
Throughout Stankowski‘s multi-faceted career [experimental designer and photographer; artist; and commercial graphic designer of posters, trademarks, books and publicity], he always had the aim of keeping his artistic means in both the free (fine arts, aesthetics) and applied (art for daily use, production, industry) fields. “Art became scientific and science became creative. The division of art into genres did not seem to make sense anymore: photography, typography, and painting intermingled and became a unity” (Stefan von Wiese, Preface). This is an excellent companion to Stankowksi’s other publications on his works and theories of his design and art practice.
The two volumes (cloth, hardcover with dustjackets) are as new. Only the slightest hint wear to the corners. The cardboard slipcase is near fine with wear to the edges and minor stains near the stapled binding. Recommended; you will not be disappointed!
