Citroën logo

Citroën DS 1955–1975

Futuristic design, innovative technology

Noted for its aerodynamic, futuristic body design and innovative technology, the DS set new standards in ride quality, handling, and braking.

Inspired by Otl Aicher

After WW2, Otl Aicher studied sculpture at the Academy of Fine Arts Munich and in 1947, he opened his own studio in Ulm, Germany. In 1953, he co-founded the influential Ulm School of Design. Aicher worked on corporate branding for Braun and Lufthansa and he considered a pioneer of corporate design. For the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Aicher created a set of pictograms meant to provide a visual interpretation of each sport. This influential signage helped athletes and visitors find their way around. Aicher died in 1991 and a Munich street is named after him.

Good art inspires; Good design motivates.

—Otl Aicher
Inspiration for my design
Inspiration for my design

About Otl Aicher

Born in Germany in 1922, Otl Aicher was a graphic designer and typographer co-founded the Ulm School of Design and is best-known for designing pictograms for the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich. His use of stick figures for public signage proved influential.

Shop the magazines