Information design has a rich and fascinating history that stretches back centuries. From early astronomical charts and statistical atlases to pioneering infographics in newspapers, the visual representation of complex information has evolved alongside human civilization. Understanding this history is not just an academic exercise – it reveals timeless principles, inspires new approaches, and connects us to a proud tradition of making complexity understandable.
Our next On Data And Design session brings together three leading experts who have dedicated their careers to uncovering, preserving, and sharing the history of information design through their collections, research, and publications.
The event will be in English only and will be streamed live on YouTube. You will be able to ask questions via Slido. Darjan Hil from Superdot Studio will host the event. Join us for «History of Information Design» on January 29, 2026, 6pm CET.
Thank you very much! We look forward to seeing you at our next On Data And Design event.
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Paul Kahn (Normandy, France) taught information design history at Northeastern University’s Information Design & Data Visualization program. As co-founder of the information architecture studios Dynamic Diagrams and Kahn+Associates, he pioneered techniques for visualizing hypertext and website structures. His upcoming book, Mapping Knowledge Across Time, explores the similarities and differences of visual communication across centuries and cultures.
Michael Stoll is Professor of Information Design at Augsburg University of Applied Sciences and holds a comprehensive private collections of historical infographics. As co–author of Taschen's «History of Information Graphics,» he curated the traveling exhibition «History of Infographics,» bringing historical examples back into public awareness.
Attila Bátorfy is an information designer, data journalist, and researcher who teaches at ELTE University Budapest. He curates «Cabinet of Infographic Curiosities,» a widely followed publication dedicated to rare and historical information graphics, data visualizations, and maps from around the world, uncovering forgotten visual treasures.