Design is One: Lella & Massimo Vignelli

SYNOPSIS

“If you can’t find it, design it” is the motto of the Vignellis, whose renowned work ranges ”from the spoon to the city.” Kathy Brew & Roberto Guerra’s film brings us into the Vignellis’ world, capturing their intelligence and creativity, as well as their humanity, warmth, and humor.

Italian-born Lella and Massimo Vignelli are among the world’s most influential designers. The work covers such a broad spectrum that one could say the Vignellis are known by everybody, even those who don’t know their names.Throughout their career, their motto has been, “If you can’t find it, design it.” Their achievements in industrial  and product design, graphic and publication design, corporate identity programs, architectural graphics,  and exhibition, interior, and furniture design have earned worldwide respect and numerous national  and international awards for over 40 years.

American Airlines

In 1965 Massimo brought the Helvetica typeface to the US. Notable projects include: New York’s subway signage and maps; the interior of Saint Peter’s Church at Citicorp Center; Venini lamps; Heller dinnerware; furniture for Poltrona Frau; and identity programs for Knoll International, Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, and American Airlines.

The Vignellis continue to be mentors to other designers. Their archive is housed in a new building at the Rochester Institute of Technology.

Many from the world of design – from architects Richard Meier and Peter Eisenman to graphic designers Milton Glaser, Michael Bierut, and Jessica Helfand, among others -- speak about the Vignellis’ work and tell us anecdotes. The film brings us into the work and everyday moments of the Vignellis’ world, capturing their intelligence and creativity, as well as their humanity, warmth, and humor.

WATCH ON DVD

The DVD includes 11 Bonus Shorts, including: Diffuser of Helvetica, Lella’s Jewelry Numbers, Massimo’s Mentor, The Girl with the Graphic Tattoo, From the Canon.

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Design is One is also available for screenings (non-theatrical, semi-theatrical, theatrical) more info »

PRESS

Kathy Brew: The Design Is One co-director talks behind-the-scenes with the Vignellis

“For us, the highest compliment is hearing someone say, ‘I feel like I met them,’ because that means we captured who they are.” —Kathy Brew

knoll.com

8 Must-See Design Documentaries For The Curious and Creative – designntrend.com

The best TV shows & films about Design you can watch right now – digitalartsonline.co.uk

Design is One: Lella e Massimo Vignelli film – bloggokin.it

Wake Up! Massimo Vignelli helped us see our world in new ways – readthespirit.com

DESIGN IS ONE is cited as # 3 of one of “22 Movies Every Designer Should Watch on Netflix” in this article. Very pleased for this recognition of our film and the importance of the Vignellis. – fastcodesign.com

Designer Insights with Kathy Brew – terrysblinds.co.uk

Two Documentaries That Must Be Seen – examiner.com

Design is One (Brew and Guerra, 2012) – patheos.com

Design’s Power Couple – documentary.org

Peruvian Doc Showcase Salutes a Master – documentary.org

Design Is One Interview on WNBC – nbcnewyork.com

Linear Genius, Bold and Transformative – nytimes.com

Learn About the Designers Behind New York City’s Iconic Subway-System Signage – vanityfair.com

More press info is available in the PRESS section.

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