ArchivingtheworkofgraphicdesignerGísliB.Björnsson

In the year 2013, the Museum of Design and Applied Art received the sketches and drawings of the work of graphic designer Gísli B. Björnsson, along with files, letters, photographs and research material. The goal of the work being carried out in the Behind the Scenes space is to register and archive the compilation to the museum’s collection. Visitors can watch as items are unpacked, photographed, entered into a collection register and finally packed for conservation. This archiving is an exciting process that expands horizons and sparks connections, ideas, conversations and memories.

In Iceland, Gísli B. Björnsson has been one of the most influential graphic designers of the 20th century. After returning from his studies in Germany in 1961, he founded his advertising agency and a year later he founded the department of advertising at the School of Fine Arts and Crafts, which is now the graphic design department at the Iceland University of the Arts, where he has taught continuously for five decades. During his extensive career, Gísli has worked on marketing and branding for a number of companies and organizations, as well as having designed many acclaimed logos of companies, associations or organizations, himself and in collaboration with his colleagues. Gísli has designed a number of books and book covers, advertisements for print and television. His work and working methods have had a great influence on the development of graphic design in Iceland. Diligence and self-criticism have always been guiding principles in all of Gísli’s work, which are basic values ​​needed to create good and responsible design.

The archiving is managed by Katla Einarsdóttir and Una María Magnúsdóttir.

The project is support d by The Museum Council of Iceland and the advertising agency Hvíta Húsið.