Richard Poulin on Rudolph de Harak

November 1 Release Documents Mid-Century Modernist

Thames & Hudson will publish RUDOLPH DE HARAK GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Rational Simplicity by Richard Poulin, the first major publication on the life and work of the celebrated mid-century modernist, on November 1, 2022.

de Harak (1924-2002) was one of the most influential graphic designers of the mid-twentieth century. Inspired by early modernist masters as well as by the rigor, simplicity and rationalism of the International Typographic Style, European Modernism, Abstract Expressionism, and Op Art, de Harak developed and refined his timeless and pioneering work from his early years in LA to his success as a design consultant and educator in NYC. Throughout his career, he continuously explored the potential of abstraction, geometry, and color, as well as experimenting with photography in new and exciting ways.

Organized chronologically, RUDOLPH DE HARAK GRAPHIC DESIGNER is the first publication to document de Harak’s pioneering and prolific work for a wide range of clients, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Columbia Records, Esquire magazine, McGraw-Hill Publishing, and the Cummins Engine Company, among many others. With more than 500 illustrations, including reproductions of de Harak’s seldom-seen paintings and collages, and remembrances from friends, colleagues, former students, artists, and family members, this comprehensive monograph provides a definitive account of the influential designer’s life and work.