Doyald Young

Typographer, logotype designer, and educator, Doyald Young was truly a master of his craft. Born in Holliday, Texas in 1926, Doyald sprung from humble beginnings working as a bellhop, usher and railroad brakeman before he began school at the Frank Wiggins Trade School in 1948. There, he was taught by Joe Gibby to draw and ink letters with a brush and really see the letterforms. He continued studying with Mortimer Leach at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA. In 1955, he became Mr. Leach's teaching assistant and soon began to teach on his own. He taught from 1955 to 1978, then returned in 1997 and taught until his passing. Doyald created numerous typefaces and designed logotypes for such prestigious clients as Hilton, Prudential, Max Factor, and Sony. He wrote three venerable books on the subject. His letters have adorned many of the most well-known awards shows in the entertainment industry (the Grammys, Golden Globe, the Tonys) and a veritable grandstand of celebrities, including Elvis Presley, Liza Minnelli, Frank Sinatra, Bette Midler and Prince. Earlier this year, Doyald was awarded the 2010 SOTA Award from the Society of Typographic Aficionados. "Recognized for demonstrating the power of a lifelong love of the craft of calligraphy, type and graphic design, for his contributions as an author and for his dedication as an educator". Friend and designer Stefan Bucher puts it this way: he was "someone who could easily have done what he does in the Renaissance, and could easily do it 300 years from now.” Doyald made an indelible mark on the design community and by sharing his love of typography with his students, ensured a lasting contribution to the arts. lynda.com is honored to host this tribute to his work.