Steidl: When Publishing Becomes Art

Gerhard Steidl, founder of the Steidl publishing house, is not just a printer or a publisher—he’s an artist in his own right. His name has become synonymous with impeccable craftsmanship, visual clarity, and a deep respect for the physical book as a cultural object.

Steidl’s journey into publishing began not in a corporate office but in the world of protest and posters. In the 1960s, he designed political flyers for student movements, slowly developing a passion for print, ink, and paper. His fascination with typography and the tactile experience of the book evolved into something greater: a commitment to the art of publishing. This eventually led him to found his own publishing house in 1972, initially focusing on art and literature before expanding into photography and fashion.

What makes Steidl’s publishing process so unique is his obsessive attention to detail. He is known to personally oversee every aspect of production—from initial meetings with artists to selecting the exact tone of ink and weight of paper. His collaborations often begin with long conversations with the artist or photographer, delving into their vision and philosophy before any layout is attempted. Steidl works closely with his clients in his workshop-home hybrid, sometimes spending years perfecting a single book. For him, each publication is not a product but a piece of art in itself.

One of Steidl’s most iconic collaborations was with the legendary fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld. Their partnership spanned decades, resulting in numerous books for Chanel and Lagerfeld. Steidl not only printed Lagerfeld’s visions—he helped translate them into timeless objects of beauty. Another notable project is his ongoing work with photographer Robert Frank, especially The Americans, a seminal photo book that has been reimagined through Steidl’s lens, keeping the integrity of Frank’s vision intact while elevating the book to a new level of material sophistication.

Recently, Korean audiences had the rare chance to witness the world of Steidl up close through the exhibition Steidl Book Culture, held in Seoul. The exhibit showcased his meticulous process, iconic works, and the philosophical core that drives his publishing ethic.

As we move further into an age dominated by digital screens and ephemeral content, Gerhard Steidl reminds us of the enduring power of print. His work urges us to pay attention—not just to what we read, but how we read it. It is publishing, yes—but above all, it is art.