Jean PETIT

Friend of several great 20th century architects, including Le Corbusier and Oscar Niemeyer, Jean Petit is a French graphic designer, publisher and art historian specialised in contemporary architecture.
He designed and created sets for important theatrical performances, such as "Les Mouches" by Jean-Paul Sartre at the theatre 'Au Vieux Colombier' in January 1951. He was also involved in the organisation of several important exhibitions (Tapisseries de Le Corbusier, Exposition de l'urbanisme et de l'habitation, Paris, 1947), produced posters, book covers, models and other graphic creations.
In 1953, he created the Cahiers Forces Vives, devoted to contemporary creation and published texts by Albert Camus, Jean Cocteau, Fernand Léger, André Malraux as well as numerous works on architecture.
His work and life were characterised by his intense relationship with Le Corbusier, with whom he collaborated and on whom he published several monographs: "Le livre de Ronchamp" (1961), "Le poème électronique" (1958), "Un couvent de Le Corbusier" (1961), "Le Corbusier parle" (1967), as well as a study of the architect's entire work and a biography: "Le Corbusier lui-même" (1965/1970).
The books created by Jean Petit, with their square format, have become famous and sought-after.
His posters have a plain background, use a reduced palette of bright colours and simple graphics.