Graphism Trilogy

Designer’s Name + Biography:
Kiyoshi Awazu (1929–2009) was a Japanese graphic designer and artist. He did not go to design school but taught himself. He worked on posters, books, film, and even public art. Awazu is known for his experimental style and for using design to talk about society, not only for advertising.

Date Published:
1977–1979 (the trilogy was completed in 3 parts)

Cultural/Artistic Context:
In the 1970s, Japanese designers were looking for new ideas after the war. Many used clean and modern styles, but Awazu chose a different way. His posters in the Graphism Trilogy are colorful, busy, and full of energy. He mixed drawings, collage, and bold letters. This work shows how design in Japan could be political, artistic, and personal at the same time.

Associated Info:
Awazu called his idea “graphism.” The trilogy was shown in exhibitions and is still studied in design history today.

Image Credit:
Awazu Design Room / NPO PLAT