Artist Profile | Graphics

Franco Grignani

Franco Grignani (1908–1999) was an Italian artist, graphic designer, and photographer celebrated for his groundbreaking work in visual perception and optical illusions. Born on February 4, 1908, in Pieve Porto Morone, Lombardy, Italy, he initially studied mathematics at the University of Pavia before focusing on architecture, graduating from the Polytechnic University of Turin in 1934. In the early 1930s, Grignani became associated with the second wave of Futurism, participating in exhibitions like the Great National Futurist Exhibition in Rome (1933). By the mid-1930s, he turned to abstract art, exploring visual perception, movement, and optical phenomena. His distinctive visual language found applications in advertising, book covers, and logos. Grignani's graphic design career began in 1938, collaborating with major companies such as Domus, Dompé, and Mondadori. His most famous work, the Woolmark logo (1963), remains a global icon in the textile industry. Throughout his career, Grignani challenged traditional aesthetics, integrating optical illusions and visual experimentation. His work bridged art and science, leaving a profound influence on the global design community. He passed away on February 20, 1999, in Milan.