KINDERSLEY, Richard (1939-2025)
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Richard Kindersley, typeface designer, letterer and sculptor whose work can be seen across Britain
He was the scion of a letter-cutting dynasty and believed that hand-carving conferred a human presence that no machine could replicate
Richard Kindersley, who has died aged 86, was a typeface designer, letterer and sculptor whose work, spanning more than six decades, became embedded in some of Britain’s most prominent public buildings and memorials.
He was a leading figure in the continuation of 20th-century British letter-cutting tradition, and his lettering and sculpture can be found at Tower Bridge, the Supreme Court, the British Museum, St Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey and Gatton Park, among many other sites.
He was born on May 14 1939 into a distinguished lineage of craftsmen. His father, David Kindersley, was among the most influential lettering artists of the postwar period, and had been taught by Eric Gill [….]
Away from his professional work, he organised study trips to Rome to examine ancient inscriptions, experiences that informed his thinking when writing for craft publications. An early member of the School of Meditation, he meditated daily for more than 60 years and later spent long periods in Kardamyli, Greece, with his wife Katherine. He will be remembered for the enduring presence of his work, and for his patience, gentle manner and warm smile.
Richard Kindersley is survived by his wife and three sons.
Richard Kindersley, born May 14 1939, died November 27 2025