karel martens: tokyo papers

"Tokyo Papers" is a collection of 41 monoprints created by Dutch graphic designer and typographer Karel Martens between 2019 and 2020. The collection was inspired by a package of filled-in Japanese forms that Martens received from artist-curator Pierre Leguillon, which were found at a street market in Tokyo. In 2019, Martens began printing on the back sides of these forms, but due to the overprinting on the carbon layer causing damage, he also started printing on the front sides. According to Martens, the final image in the collection is related to Tokyo in a different way. This collection showcases Martens' experimentation with new materials and his distinctive approach to print design.

Karel Martens is a Dutch graphic designer known for his contributions to typography and print design. Martens was born in The Netherlands in 1939 and studied at the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague. He began his career as a designer in the 1960s and quickly gained a reputation for his innovative approach to typography and print design.

Martens is known for his use of minimalistic and geometric forms in his design work, as well as his use of color and texture to create visual interest. He has designed a range of printed materials, including books, posters, and publications, and his work is known for its simplicity, clarity, and functionality. Martens has received numerous awards and accolades for his work and has had his designs exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. In addition to his work as a designer, Martens has also taught design at several universities and has served as a mentor to many young designers.