Statement and Counter-Statement: Notes on Experimental Jetset

by Experimental Jetset

The first publication on the work of Experimental Jetset features almost two decades of graphic design praxis. Rather than a monolithic monograph, it is a very loose, personal archive, with essays by Linda van Deursen, Mark Owens, and Ian Svenonius, plus two photographic chapters with a selection of work by the studio, covering both printed matter and the documentation of site-specific pieces and installations. To conclude is a glossary-like anthology of texts (fragments of interviews, lectures, correspondence, etc.) previously written by Experimental Jetset, selected, edited, and structured by Jon Sueda.

Genres: Design, Essays

576 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2015

Reviews

[Jon Nguyen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't know much about Experimental Jetset before, beyond their brief appearance in the movie "Helvetica" several years ago. This book contains several writings on their different influences: music, art, protest movements, modernism, being from the Netherlands, and Marxism, among other things.

Their philosophy as a studio becomes very clear and also inspires. The importance of staying small. Remaining independent and having the confidence to pursue your own point of view. The idea that you can make the work life and the personal life be the same thing, and that this would actually be a good thing to do.

Of course, the book itself is a beautifully designed object, which adds to it.

[Florian Roth · Rating 2 out of 5]

ha meh/angeri sachä erwartet

[Cassidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating look at the practice and praxis of a decades long studio, intriguing to see how other designers use similar methods for their own introspection.

[Eric]

I’ve never loved EJS’s work—a bit too cerebral and chilly—but I now very much like them and the way they think. Even when I don’t agree whatsoever. And even when I don’t agree I at least try to verbalize to myself why. And if they get more designers to do this through this book then we should be so lucky. Well done.