This celebrated and much sought-after issue of the Japanese magazine idea focuses on a towering figure in Swiss graphic design, Emil Ruder. Back in print!

idea is a renowned Japanese magazine about international graphic art and typography. Its 333rd edition lent 226 pages to Emil Ruder, showcasing his work, influence, and legacy in the world of typography and beyond.

This special volume brings together essays, discussions, and appraisals from fellow designers, typographers, and artists—yielding a comprehensive survey of Ruder’s accomplishments. It engages with the designer’s many years of work and teaching in Basel, his thirty years as publisher of the famous Typographische Monatsblätter as well as his posters, fonts, and philosophy.

The extraordinary and comprehensive presentation of the life and works of Swiss typographic legend Emil Ruder sold out shortly after coming off the press. Initially published in 2009 the issue is now available in its original version complemented by commentaries from Michael Renner and Lars Müller.

“There are two essential aspects to the work of the typographer: he must take into account knowledge already acquired and keep his mind receptive to novelty. There must be no letting up in the determination to produce vital work reflecting the spirit of the times; doubt and perturbation are good antidotes against the tendency to follow the line of least resistance.” —Emil Ruder

Edited by Helmut Schmid

Designed by Helmut Schmid and Nicole Schmid

Published by Lars Müller

Bilingual, text in Japanese and English

Hardcover, 226 pages, 310 color images, 9 × 11.75 inches

ISBN: 978-3-03778-541-6