The legendary graphic designer, who died today at the age of 83, is being remembered by his colleagues as a brilliant man and a great teacher.

“From Massimo, I Iearned that designing a book wasn’t about coming up with a clever place for the page numbers. He taught me about typography, about scale, about pacing, about refinement. I learned to think of graphic design as a way to create an experience, an experience that was not limited to two dimensions or to a momentary impression. It was about creating something lasting, even timeless” – Michael Bierut. Read more of Bierut’s tribute in the Design Observer.

“Massimo,

 you are an inspiration and always have been. 

I’ve enjoyed our philosophical talks, especially listening to you and watching your body language when the passion builds and builds. You are the true Roman candle (I know you’re not from Rome), a joy to behold” 

- Steven Heller

“Mas­simo Vignelli passed away this morn­ing. I can’t even begin to explain how much of an influ­ence he was on me. I wouldn’t know half of what I know about design if it weren’t for him. I will con­tinue to learn from Mas­simo for years to come. He will be missed, but his work will live on for generations. Riposi in pace, Massimo” – Antonio Carusone