Born in Prague, Hofman studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in his hometown before moving to Germany and Austria to work. During the First World War, he worked as a graphic designer for the Austro-Hungarian army, where he developed his poster design skills.
In the 1920s and 1930s, Hofman became a prominent member of the Czech art movement known as "Art Deco", which significantly influenced his work. His advertising posters for everyday consumer products, such as cigarettes and foodstuffs, were often marked by a clean, energetic graphic style.
Hofman was also a professor at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague for several years, where he taught typography and graphic design. He continued to work as a designer and artist until his death in 1963. Today, his works are held in the collections of museums and art galleries around the world.