Supergraphics are a great way to enhance a space not only by adding more visual info for whoever is using the space but also by livening it up and bringing art into the area. It’s no surprise that the trend began in the loud, eccentric 70s, throwing organic stripes and color-blocked murals onto interior/ exterior walls giving more energy to a space.

Sea Ranch supergraphic work by Barbara Stauffacher.
Brochure for Sea Ranch by Barbara Stauffacher.

A well-known creative who spear-headed super graphics was Barbara “Bobbie” Stauffacher, with her work in landscape architecture and graphic design. She dominated the world of architectural design being a very male-dominated industry, especially in the 60s and 70s when were supergraphic work was blowing up. Her work introducing super graphics began at the athletic centre of North California’s Sea Ranch. Originally Stauffacher was only hired to create a logo and brochure, but as her relationship with the company grew she ended up designing supergraphics all over the building after the architects went way over budget and Sea Ranch needed a cost-effective signage option.

A recent portrait of Barbara Stauffacher in Sea Ranch.