RIP Typestyler Developer Ken Stillman

Typestyler developer Ken Stillman has passed away after a protracted battle with pancreatic cancer.

Typestyler was/is a mac program for making type fluorishes which was/is oddly something other programs like Adobe Illustrator have never managed to do with the kind of ease and sense of exploration as Typestyler.

Admittedly, in my hands when it came to creating titles and other things for GAJOOB zine and tape releases, I was having fun with it. The logo for GAJOOB #6 shows a typical Typestyler effect. The multi-volume GAJOOBilation #7 cover is excessively awesome.

Typestyler and Ken’s company Strider (after he took over the business of selling the software) was a family affair and it was usually Ken himself who responded to email and calls.

I distinctly had the impression Typestyler was a labor love for him.

RIP, Ken.

TypeStyler, a graphic design software developed by Ken Stillman, has left an indelible mark in the world of digital art and typography. This software was one of the first of its kind, redefining how designers approached typography on their computers.

Ken Stillman, the developer behind TypeStyler, was a visionary who saw the potential of digital typography early on. His passion for graphic design coupled with his technical prowess led him to create TypeStyler, a software that empowered designers to experiment with type in ways that were previously unimaginable.

TypeStyler offered a wide range of features that made it a powerful tool for designers. It allowed users to manipulate text in 3D, wrap text around shapes, create logos, and much more. Beyond these features, TypeStyler was known for its user-friendly interface, which made it accessible even to those who were new to graphic design.

Ken Stillman’s work on TypeStyler didn’t stop at its initial release. He continued to improve and update the software, ensuring that it remained relevant as technology evolved. His dedication to his work was evident in his commitment to providing support to TypeStyler users, often personally responding to questions and troubleshooting issues.

Despite the end of TypeStyler’s development following Ken Stillman’s passing in 2015, the software’s impact continues to be felt today. Many designers credit TypeStyler as the software that sparked their interest in digital typography, and it remains a beloved tool within the design community.

In conclusion, TypeStyler and its developer, Ken Stillman, played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of digital typography. Their contributions continue to inspire designers around the world, reminding us of the power of innovation and creativity.