Known to be a visionary and break every rule of typography and design, Edward Fella is an exceptional graphic designer, artist and educator.

His work, including the creation of two typefaces; “OutWest” and “Fella”, has had a huge influence on contemporary typography. Both typefaces, as well as Fella’s artwork, could be described as “original”, “idiosyncratic” and “authentic.”

During his commercial art days, Fella rarely used a computer, instead, preferring handmade compositions.

“I always say I’m a graphic designer and artist from the last century. The middle of the last century,” said Fella.

While many other designers followed what’s known as the “Swiss Style” of graphic design, developed in the 1950’s which emphasizes cleanliness and readability, Fella changed the world of typography by being eccentric and quirky. Fella said he’s interested in graphic design as art, not simply as a way to communicate.

“Art starts when it’s shown,” explains Fella. “It doesn’t exist, literally, until you show it. Then it’s there forever, right? It just has a beginning, whereas graphic design has an end. The end is always the event, the communication, the magazine, the newspaper.”

Full Frame caught up with Fella, who is now retired, as he continues to influence the art world and encourages young artists to keep their work authentic despite what others may do.