CHANEL Connects: The Venetian Script with Michael Rock and Irma Boom
Episode Release Date: August 20, 2024
In this captivating episode of CHANEL Connects, host Yana Peel delves deep into the art of bookmaking and design with two luminaries in the field: Michael Rock, a celebrated graphic designer and co-founder of 2x4, and Irma Boom, widely regarded as the premier book designer of our generation. Set against the historic backdrop of Palazzo Persico in Venice—the heart of the 60th Venice Biennale—this conversation unpacks the rich history, current challenges, and future of book design in an increasingly digital world.
1. Welcoming the Visionaries ([00:04] - [03:50])
The episode opens with Jana Peel introducing the setting and guests, emphasizing Venice's pivotal role in the evolution of bookmaking. Michael Rock provides a comprehensive overview of the book's transformation from handwritten manuscripts to mass-produced works, highlighting Aldus Manutius and his innovations such as italic typeface and the comma's universalization.
Notable Quote:
"The book has proved to be a remarkably durable, resilient medium that we're still reading them, talking about them, collecting them, and for some of us, making them." — Michael Rock [02:15]
2. The Historical Significance of Venice in Bookmaking ([01:47] - [06:24])
Michael Rock traces the origins of mass-produced books to Venice in the mid-15th century, detailing the explosive growth of printers on the island and the socio-political factors that fueled this surge. Irma Boom adds depth by discussing how political events and crises have historically influenced bookmaking and typography.
Notable Quote:
"Books were the primary form of educating people, of creating a central reference that people could go back to." — Michael Rock [05:50]
3. The Transformation of Books in the Digital Age ([06:24] - [10:56])
The conversation shifts to the impact of the Internet on traditional bookmaking. Irma Boom emphasizes the book's permanence and its role as a stable medium amidst the flux of digital content. She contrasts this with the ephemeral nature of online information, advocating for books as enduring repositories of knowledge and art.
Notable Quote:
"One of the great qualities of books is the static or the frozen information... you can always go back to that certain moment it captures." — Irma Boom [06:56]
4. The Designer's Role and the Essence of Seduction in Design ([10:56] - [19:21])
Michael Rock and Irma Boom explore the intrinsic role of designers as mediators and seducers. They discuss how design transcends mere aesthetics to convey deeper narratives and emotions. Irma Boom passionately speaks against the notion of books as mere status symbols, advocating instead for their role in sharing information and capturing moments in time.
Notable Quotes:
"I really hate the word coffee table book. Because it's not a book to use. It's just a book to show off." — Irma Boom [09:54]
"I think seduction is... a way that we want to communicate an idea which is on top of the information itself." — Michael Rock [11:01]
5. Personal Insights and Philosophies on Design ([19:21] - [21:47])
The dialogue deepens as the guests reflect on their personal journeys and philosophies. Irma Boom shares her aspiration to innovate within bookmaking, pondering future techniques and structures that could redefine the medium. Michael Rock emphasizes the importance of maintaining a human touch in design, ensuring that the essence of creativity remains intact despite technological advancements.
Notable Quote:
"If you create limits, you can be far more creative than when anything is possible." — Irma Boom [15:20]
6. Reflections on the Future of Bookmaking and Design ([21:47] - [20:09])
Looking forward, Irma Boom envisions a future where bookmaking continues to evolve, embracing new materials and techniques while preserving its foundational qualities. Michael Rock echoes the sentiment, highlighting the designer's role in navigating the ever-changing landscape to create coherent and meaningful works.
Notable Quote:
"Books are... made for the future." — Irma Boom [19:52]
7. Personal Anecdotes and Closing Thoughts ([20:09] - [24:24])
In the episode's closing moments, Jana Peel invites guests to share their favorite sunset spots in Venice, adding a personal and serene touch to the profound discussions. Michael Rock and Irma Boom each offer their cherished views, encapsulating the beauty and inspiration that Venice continues to provide.
Notable Quote:
"San Giorgio Maggiore... gives you kind of overall view on the city... one of the most beautiful views of the city." — Michael Rock [22:21]
"I like to watch the sunset when I'm near the Giardini, because usually I'm still filled with the art and... all the good things that I saw." — Irma Boom [22:55]
Conclusion
This episode of CHANEL Connects masterfully intertwines history, art, and personal philosophy, offering listeners an in-depth exploration of bookmaking's past, present, and future. Michael Rock and Irma Boom provide invaluable insights into the enduring significance of books as mediums of knowledge and art, while also highlighting the evolving role of designers in an ever-changing world. For enthusiasts of design, literature, and art, this conversation is both enlightening and inspiring, reaffirming the timeless allure of the printed word amidst the digital age.