Henry Steiner: A Pioneer in Graphic Design
The ‘Pauline and Yasuo Exhibition Series’ at M+ has recently launched a new exhibition titled ‘Henry Steiner: Translating Pictures into Words.’ This showcase is dedicated to the works of Henry Steiner, who is widely recognized as the father of Hong Kong graphic design, born in 1934. The exhibition highlights his most representative projects, tracing the development of Hong Kong since the 1960s and celebrating Steiner’s significant influence on the use of imagery.
Early Life and Education
Born in Austria in 1934, Steiner moved to the United States and studied at Yale University under the esteemed American graphic designer Paul Rand. It was there that he honed his skills in storytelling through images, mastering the art of graphic design.
Hong Kong: A Vibrant City in Transformation
In 1961, Steiner relocated to Hong Kong, a city rich in diverse cultural backgrounds. He found the city to be vibrant and rapidly transforming into an international hub in sectors such as manufacturing, trade, finance, leisure, and tourism. Steiner’s work in Hong Kong employed conceptual and contrasting techniques, juxtaposing elements from multiple cultures to create a compelling new method of visual communication.
Steiner’s Impact and Style
His creations, characterized by wit, unexpectedness, and depth, resonated with a broad and diverse audience. The exhibition is divided into two parts: the first part explores Steiner’s early experiences and influences, while the second part introduces his unique designs.
Representative Projects and Designs
The exhibition features Steiner’s work on large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects that reflect Hong Kong’s development. It also includes plans that showcase the city’s ambition to become a tourist and vacation destination. By displaying Steiner’s creations during the most vibrant decades of Hong Kong’s development, the exhibition elucidates the importance of graphic design in shaping the city’s unique visual culture.Open from June 15th to November 10th. Specific business hours are subject to daily opening conditions.
