Vertigo (1958) © The British Film Institute / Saul Bass Estate
Saul Bass's work is instantly recognisable for its directness, its simplicity and the way it makes its meaning felt. Breaking all conventions in the 1950s and 60s, Bass virtually invented film titles as we know them today, and he was the first to synthesize movies into compelling trademark images.
Anatomy of a Murder (1959) © The British Film Institute / Saul Bass Estate
In a period when graphic imagery can so easily be manipulated electronically, Bass reminds us that a strong idea is always at the heart of great design. His work, as reflected in this exhibition, is as refreshing today as ever.
Nine Hours to Rama (1963) © The British Film Institute / Saul Bass Estate
Born in New York in 1920, Saul Bass moved to Los Angeles where he set up his own design studio in the 1950s. From this time until his death in 1996, Bass continued to work with Hollywood's leading directors, including Preminger, Hitchcock and Scorscese. In 1968 Bass received an Oscar for his own film How Man Creates, which he regarded as his seminal work.
Bonjour Tristesse (1958) © The British Film Institute / Saul Bass Estate
Bass's authority derives not only from his film work; he is acknowledged as one of the 20th century's most successful corporate designers, responsible for (amongst others) the logos and identity systems for AT&T, United Airlines, Alcoa and Warner Communications.
The Human Factor (1979) © The British Film Institute / Saul Bass Estate
Kemistry Gallery
43 Charlotte Road
London EC2A 3PD
Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm
Saturday 11am - 4pm
