Bruno Munari was a communication designer. He appreciated the combination of the art and design world and thought they went together hand in hand. He started as a graphic designer in 1930, his work was mostly geometric and abstract. Munari focuses on simplification. How simplified can an object be when it becomes a symbol, and further, how simple can the symbol be? Munari clearly illustrates this using an arrow. As seen in the figure, the human eye can interpret all of these images as arrows even in its most simple form. This form of communication design is fascinating because it streamlines the symbol or logo process. How can a symbol be most recognizable in its simplest form? While designing an icon or a logo I am constantly prompting myself with this question.
In my own process, I am continually inspired by Munari's exploration of simplicity. I often begin sketching in my notebook then transfer these designs to the computer. However, I have found it helpful to begin on my computer, experimenting with shapes then taking my favorites to my notebook. Focusing on the defining features and understanding what is necessary for the human eye to distinguish the image. When designing the brand identity for Dial, I knew I wanted the shape of the phone integrated in the typography for the primary logo and the icon. After several iterations and feedback, I customized the typography to reflect the shape of the phone. Munari’s exploration of design principles and symbols is inspiring for effective communication design and something I remind myself every time I open my notebook for a new project.