Regarded as one of the greatest designers of the last century, Massimo Vignelli believed designers should serve the world with clarity, order and efficiency. Famously a fan of simplicity, Vignelli dedicated his life to direct and coherent communication. As a modernist designer, his work reflects these principles, perhaps most famously in his 1972 map for the New York City subway. It’s a prime example of how complicated, messy information can be organised and simplified – part of what Vignelli described as a ‘fight against ugliness’. For Vignelli, this fight wasn’t simply about making things beautiful. It was a rejection of trendy or frivolous design in favour of work that was clear, purposeful and timeless. He believed good design should serve its purpose across generations, rather than constantly changing with fashion. The fight was also against unnecessary interference: decisions driven by trends, commercial interests or a lack of understanding that could undermine a system that was already working. 📷 New York City subway map, New York City subway guide, New York City subway sign