Kurt Schwitters

Kurt Schwitters was born on June 20, 1887 in Hanover, Germany, and died on January 8, 1948 in Kendal, England. He was a versatile artist who worked as a painter, poet, graphic designer and typographer, developing a Dadaist »total world view« under the keyword »Merz«.

Typographic Work and New Typography: Schwitters worked in several genres and media, including graphic design and typography. His typographic work was closely connected to his Merz art, in which he created collages from newspaper clippings, advertisements and refuse starting in 1919. He transferred this technique to his typographic designs, combining text and image in innovative ways.

Role in Elementary Typography: In 1928, Schwitters initiated the artist association »die abstrakten hannover« (the abstract hanover), whose founding members included Hans Nitzschke, Friedel Vordemberge-Gildewart, Karl Buchheister and Rudolf Jahns. This group represented constructivist and abstract design principles that also shaped elementary typography. Schwitters' work combined Dadaist freedom with constructivist order, making him a bridge figure between these two movements.

Artistic Publications: Schwitters actively produced artistic journals, illustrated works, and advertisements. His typographic works were characterized by experimental layouts, the use of found text elements, and a rejection of traditional hierarchical design. Around 1918, he began incorporating street litter directly into his artworks, which also revolutionized his approach to typography.

Emigration and Late Work: Denounced as »degenerate« by the Nazis, Schwitters emigrated to Norway in January 1937 and to England in 1940. Despite the difficult circumstances in exile, he continued his artistic work and created works combining typography, collage and painting until his death in 1948.