Eric Gill: Sculptor, Typographer, and Writer

"Eric Gill was one of the most colourful figures in early 20th century art, despite the majority of his prints being in black and white. Sculptor, typographer, and writer, it was the unequalled clarity of line of his engravings that have made his work so sought after.
Gill’s subject matter swung between the deeply religious and the highly erotic, a direct echo of his eccentric life.

His prints first appeared invariably in tiny editions or as illustrations in limited edition books, such as those he illustrated for the Golden Cockerel Press. We are fortunate that in 1929 his friend and publisher, Douglas Cleverdon, produced a book of his prints, all printed from the original blocks. This was followed 5 years later by a second similar book, this time published by Faber. "
Take a look at his work...

Information about the font designer Eric Gill and his typefaces.
Gill was born in Brighton, the son of non-conformist minister. While apprenticed to an architect in London, he became smitten with the world of calligraphy, which he entered by attending classes given by Edward Johnston. He was profoundly influenced by Johnston's dedicated approach to work and decided to join the world of the Arts and Crafts.

During his lifetime he set up three self-sufficient religious communities where, surrounded by his retinue, he worked as sculptor, wood-engraver, and type designer. He also wrote constantly and prodigiously on his favourite topics: social reform; the integration of the body and spirit; the evils of industrialisation; and the importance of the working man. He converted to Catholicism in 1913 and this influenced his sculpture and writings. He designed his first typeface, Perpetua, for Stanley Morison who had badgered him for years on this matter. Of all the 11 typefaces that he designed, Gill Sans is his most famous; it is a clear modern type and became the letter of the railways - appearing on their signs, engine plates, and timetables.