Karel Martens: Re-Printed Matter

Karel Martens' work holds a unique place in European art and design. His approach is both deeply personal and highly experimental, yet always responsive to the public realm. Over his decades-long career, he has been a prolific book designer while also taking on diverse design commissions, including stamps, coins, and architectural signage. Alongside his design work, Martens has maintained an artistic practice that began with geometric and kinetic constructions and later evolved into explorations of paper as a medium—most notably through his monoprints.

This book seeks innovative ways to present and discuss Martens’ dual role as a designer and artist, embracing the same spirit of experimentation and dialogue that defines his work. Originally published in 1996 to mark his receipt of the Dr. A.H. Heineken Prize for Art, it has been expanded over the years, culminating in this fourth edition, which now spans nearly sixty years of his practice.

● 280 pages
● Dimensions: 6.6 × 9 inches (170 × 230 mm)
● Softcover
● English
● 2019
● Published by Roma Publications
● Designed by Jaap van Triest and Karel Martens