Karel Martens: Unbound

The definitive monograph on a master of systematic beauty. Karel Martens transforms the mundane – stamps, signage, typography – into moments of unexpected poetry through methodical experimentation and rigorous play. This is design thinking made visible: decades of exploration distilled into one essential volume commemorating his first solo exhibition at the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam. Not just a retrospective, but a handbook for seeing differently. The open binding is intentional – pages that breathe, spreads that lie completely flat, construction made beautifully visible. This book is itself a design object, demonstrating Martens' philosophy of structure without constraint. Featuring works from the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam collection alongside rare studio pieces. Each page reveals Martens' singular ability to find infinite possibility within self-imposed constraints – the hallmark of truly disciplined creativity. Perfect for the studio bookshelf, but equally compelling on the coffee