Helvetica

The Helvetica typeface which has been around for the last fifteen years has become one of the most universal typefaces widly - used all over the world, especially due to its classic typography. Although modernism was critisized and described by many, Helvetica seemed to have endured all criticism associated with the era, and deemed itself irreplaceable. When comparing the timeless, classic typeface to other fonts, Helvetica's success seems to override all others.

Originally, Helvetica was called Neue Hass Grotesk, dating back to 1960. As this was not the most attractive name the typeface was renamed "Helvetica" which is the Latin meaning for 'Swiss'.
Max Miedinger together with Edward Hoffman were the two designers responsible for this renowned typography which began to develop and advance in 1957.
Progress on the Helvetica typeface began at the Type Foundry in Muchenstein , Switzerland where the developer aimed at creating a new vitalized design but one that was neutral with no underlying meaning in its form and most importantly a classic typeface that could widely be used on a variety of signage.

Helvetica became a worldwide sensation as it seemed to possess all the right elements necessary to revitalize peoples minds in the design industry. During this period of time advertisement was lasking clarity as a lot of the typography was extravagant and overwhelming for consumers. Due to its characteristics of simplicity and clarity, Helvetica evidently distinguished itself from all other fonts evolving into a Modernist success. Its clean form allowed it to be broody amonst a wide selection of settings. A number of designers were challenged to believe that the content of a product should speak for itself without having to be driven and enhanced greatly by the design. Helvetica typeface proved exactly this. An appropriate example is the CocaCola advert where Helvetica typeface was used in the marketing campaign in the 1950s. The message they wanted to convey was a simple one: 'Coke its the real thing'.It was a simple but srtriking message allowing the product to do the thing by using typography.
Helvetica became a design tool allowing designers to add on essential element to their work. They wanted to prove to the client's 'less is more' when it comes to logos. They believed that those who embrace this typeface can truly achieve success. It however began to lose its popularity in the 1980's when postmodern design began.

Bibliography

PERKS, M., 2007. Tracing the History of Helvetica. [Online]
Available at: http://www.spiked-online.com/newsite/article/4123#.Un_NA_mbP20
[Accessed 10 November 2013].