Typography enthusiasts have a new reason to clear space on their desks as Typodarium 2026 has officially launched. This latest edition of the beloved 365-day tear-off calendar continues the tradition of celebrating emerging type designers and experimental typography while highlighting the often-overlooked importance of type design in visual communication.
The 2026 edition focuses specifically on modular typefaces, introducing a fresh modular font every Sunday throughout the year. This thematic choice reflects the complexity hidden beneath what appear to be simple geometric experiments, building on the foundational work of pioneers like Josef Albers with his Architype and Herbert Bayer with Universal, both created a century ago. The Bauhaus designers of that era were wrestling with fundamental questions about design's role in a rapidly changing world order.
Today's designers find themselves in a similar position, navigating an era marked by incredible technological advancement, unlimited possibilities, and significant risks. Many are returning to these foundational sources, exploring what it means to approach creative possibilities with their particular set of skills and knowledge. The publishers' decision to focus on this theme reflects these contemporary design challenges and questions about the field's evolving role.
The Typodarium calendar has established itself as a trendsetter in the typography world, eagerly anticipated each year by designers and creative agency professionals. Now in its 18th year, the 2026 edition showcases an impressive collection of 365 typefaces created by 330 designers, both seasoned professionals and emerging talents, representing 39 countries worldwide. This international scope demonstrates the global nature of contemporary type design and the calendar's commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives.
Expert commentary throughout the calendar comes from three notable figures in the typography world: creative director Raban Ruddigkeit, who created the Typodarium concept; Lars Harmsen, a respected designer and educator; and Julia Uplegger, an accomplished type designer who also led the design and project management for this edition. Their insights provide valuable context and analysis for each featured typeface.
The calendar maintains its compact, collector-friendly format, measuring 12 x 8.5 x 6 centimeters and arriving in a specially designed collector's box. Published by Verlag Hermann Schmidt, the calendar can be purchased through Slanted, with all imagery provided by photographer Julien Fincker. The physical, analog nature of the calendar offers a tactile experience that stands in contrast to our increasingly digital design world.
