Willem Sandberg was a visionary Dutch graphic designer, museum director, and advocate for modern art. A follower of the Mazdaznan movement, Sandberg began his career in a Swiss printshop before studying Otto Neurath's Isotype system in Vienna and exploring Bauhaus in Dessau. He developed his artistic foundation through psychology studies in Utrecht and Vienna, and later studied art in Amsterdam.

Sandberg joined the Stedelijk Museum in 1928, eventually serving as director from 1945 to 1962. He introduced innovative exhibition techniques and designed numerous catalogs, securing the museum's international acclaim. His influence extended beyond the Stedelijk, contributing to the Israel Museum and the documenta exhibitions in Kassel. Recognized for his contributions, he earned awards such as the Werkman Prize and an honorary doctorate from the University of Buffalo.

During WWII, Sandberg played a key role in the Dutch Resistance, hiding significant art collections to protect them from Nazi seizure. He used his graphic expertise to forge documents for Jewish escapees, even helping orchestrate a dramatic attack on Amsterdam's records office to disrupt Nazi identification processes. Forced into hiding, he produced “Experimenta Typographica,” a series of experimental artworks that solidified his artistic legacy.

After the war, Sandberg’s contributions to modern art extended internationally, especially through his work with the Israel Museum. Known for his humble, minimalist style, he remains a key figure in art and humanitarianism, honored by the Dutch and global art communities.
Sandberg's work not only advanced modern art in the Netherlands but also championed accessible and progressive design principles worldwide. (hs)