INTRODUCTION TO TYPOGRAPHY:
My first step to the project was to search for the meaning of typography, so as to understand the subject on a more in-depth level. I thought it was crucial to know the definition of a subject, before being able to fully delve into discovering its forms, mediums and elements, etc.
Eventually, my final understanding of typography is that it:
- Is the visual component of the written word
- Is the art and technique of arranging type
- Has a goal: To communicate and send a distinct message to viewers.
A few elements to take note of in typography are:
- Layout, which includes negative space
- Colour scheme (different colour palettes have different meanings)
- Sizing
- Fonts
- Leading (space between lines of text)
- Kerning (space between characters)
HANDMADE, 3D & DIY TYPOGRAPHY:
I think the three major mediums for these categories of typography are:
Traditional
Examples: Pencil, pen, chinese ink, water colour, acrylic paint, charcoal, graphite, etc.
Digital
Examples: Applications like Photoshop and Illustrator, etc.
Objects
Examples: Thread, candy, dough, petals, rubber bands, concrete, light bulbs, water, etc.
Mixed mediums/platforms
I thought this was an interesting idea because it opens the mind and generates more ideas, if we can include various mediums and platforms in the design (e.g. as shown below, the alphabets are drawn on with ink, but the leaves are placed on the design to create a 3D effect, and make the typography really pop out).
DADA Typography:
Characteristics:
- Heavy use of symbols
- Plays with vertigo (horizontals and verticals)
- Mixes fonts
- Unorthodox punctuation
Hannah Hoch:
A German Dada artist, and one of the first few women to breakthrough in the design industry.
Russian Constructivism Typography:
Characteristics:
- Focused on the use of materials
- To express the experience of modern life
- Disorienting elements of space and time
Other examples of typography I like:
Sawdust Typography:
A graphic design firm based in London that was created by Rob Gonzalez and Jonathan Quainton. They specialise in a very unique style that I appreciate, one that plays with various mediums, fonts, forms and contrasts. I also like that their designs come off as rather clean, sleek and minimalistic.
http://www.madebysawdust.co.uk/
JOachim VU:
He is another graphic designer who works with clients from all industries to assist them with branding and conceptualising ideas. I find his work especially unique because he does custom lettering, and pays extreme attention to intricacies and details.
https://dribbble.com/joachimvu
