Advanced Typography - Task 1: Exercises
September 3 ，2023
Xing Yu / 0361463 / BA of Design (HONS) in Creative Media
Typography Task 1 (Exercises)
LECTURES
Lecture 1: Typesetting systems
All designs are based on structural systems. According to Elam, there are
eight major changes:
axial
Radial direction
expansion
Random
grid
modularization
transition
bilateral
Typesetting systems not only provide targeted perception, but also help
focus and guide decision making. In addition, other criteria need to be
considered, including hierarchy, reading order, readability, and
contrast.
Shape syntax: This is a set of rules that are progressively applied to
generate a set of elements for a particular language or design.
Single-axis systems - all elements are aligned in one direction, either
left or right.:
Fig.1.1 Axial System
Radial system - all elements radiate outward from a
central point.
Fig.1.2 Radial System
Expansion system - All elements unfold from a central point in a
circular fashion.
Fig.1.3 Dilatational System
Random system - The elements appear to have no obvious pattern or
correlation to each other.
Fig.1.4 Random System
Network Systems - Vertical and horizontal systems sectors
Transition system: Informal transition system of graded tape
Fig.1.6 Transitional System
Modular system: A series of non-objective elements constructed as
standardized units.
Fig.1.7 Modular System
Bilateral system - all text is arranged symmetrically on a
single axis.
Fig.1.8 Bilateral System
Lecture 2: Principles of composition and composition
Rules and design combination
When it comes to translating abstract concepts such as emphasis,
isolation, repetition, symmetry, asymmetry, alignment, and
perspective, they can seem a little vague. These concepts seem to
apply more to visual art than to complex units of information made
up of various elements.
One of the guiding principles of photographic composition is the
rule of thirds, which recommends dividing a picture into 3 columns
and 3 rows. However, it is not often adopted.
One of the most common systems is the grid system, which includes 8
different typesetting systems. These systems evolved further and are
now commonly referred to as Swiss style typography.
Chaos, randomness, and symmetry were key elements in the exploration
of typographic systems in the past Modernist era. Designers like
Davi Carson, Paula Saher, and Jonathan Barnbrook are the best
examples, and they seem to be able to subtly combine legibility with
readability.
Environmental grid is formed based on the exploration of existing
structures or multiple structures. It involves extracting the key
lines of curves and straight lines. Designers organize information
around a superstructure that includes non-objective elements to
create unique and engaging textures and visual stimuli.
Form and dynamics are based on the existing grid system, and the
position of the form changes across multiple pages.
As you mention: "There is a fine line between genius and madness,
just as there is between legibility and readability and
memorability."
Lecture 3: Background and innovation
In the field of typography, handwritten words have a special
place because they represent the earliest mechanical forms of
writing designed to mimic the style of manual handwriting.
Handwriting forms the basis and standard for shape, spacing,
and usage, while mechanical typography strives to imitate and
reproduce these features.
With the rise of the digital revolution, Western societies
began to digitize their rich historical material, and digital
studios focused on creating, promoting and selling this
digital content.
Creativity and originality often go hand in hand. It is
important that we reflect deeply, examine their evolution
through history, civilizations, cultures, and social groups,
and bring these historical achievements into the future,
rather than blindly borrowing elements that lack history,
relevance, or relevant cultural and developmental
context.
Lecture 4: Situation and Creativity
In this talk, Mr. Vinod walks us through the process of
typeface design, with special emphasis on the outstanding work
of typeface designers such as Adrian Frutiger, Matthew Carter
and Edward Johnston.
Font design is not only a socially responsible work, but also
regarded as a form of artistic expression, so it is necessary
to constantly strive to improve the readability of fonts.
The general steps of font design are as follows:
Research - Delve into the history, structure, and industry
standards of typefaces while reviewing existing fonts
currently in use.
Initial idea - traditional hand drawing tools or digital
design tools can be used.
Digitizing - Using specialized software, such as applications
such as Font lab and Glyphs, to digitize initial ideas.
Testing - Font readability and ease of use are crucial
considerations.
Review - Before publishing, perform a rigorous review of the
font to ensure that problems are minimized.
This process helps to ensure that high quality fonts are
designed to meet a variety of needs.
LECTURE 5: Perception and Organization
- Size: Used to draw the reader's attention. The most
common application is to make the size of the title or
header significantly larger than the body text.
- Weight: Describes how bold letters stand out in lighter
fonts of the same style. You can also use rules, points,
and squares to create visually emphasized "focus
areas."
- Shape: The difference between uppercase and lowercase
letters, or Roman letters and their italic variants, also
includes compressed and expanded versions of the
font.
- Structure: Different letter shapes between different font
types. For example, the difference between sans serif
typefaces and traditional serif typefaces, or italics and
bold typefaces.
- Texture: By comparing size, weight, shape, and structure,
apply them to blocks of text on the page to create
different textures. Texture refers to the look and feel of
text lines at different distances.
- Orientation: The contrast between vertical and
horizontal, and the Angle in between.
- Color: Color is recommended, usually a second color for
emphasis, especially if the value is not as good as black
text on a white background.
INSTRUCTIONS
Exercise 1 requires us to design 8 square posters using the 8-typography system.
- Regarding the order in which information is presented, the reader should prioritize the following aspects:
- Information arrangement: Ensure that the information is organized so that the reader can fully understand the entire poster.
- Primary colors: Before completing the layout, determine the primary color scheme.
- Font Settings: Include the correct size, line space, and character spacing. The recommended size is between 8 and 12pt.
- Select a tertiary heading: In each typesetting system, select a relevant tertiary heading.
- Ensure alignment of guides and margins: Create the appropriate grid on the appropriate guides to ensure alignment of guides and margins. In addition, make sure that each cell is positioned correctly according to the specified margins.
There are 3 headings, and we can choose any one of them in the layout.
All Ripped Up: Punk influence on Design.
Punk emerged as a rebellious and DIY (do-it-yourself) movement in the 1970s, characterized by its anti-establishment attitude, energetic music, and distinctive aesthetic.
The ABCs of Bauhaus Design Theory
Bauhaus aimed to unite art, craft, and technology, emphasizing functional design and the integration of fine arts and everyday objects.
Russian Constructivism and Graphic Design
Russian Constructivism was considered more of a philosophy than just an art style. It reflected a belief in art for social change rather than personal expression.
Layout Explorations
At this stage, I first listed the information that needs to be included in the layout. Next, I drafted the appropriate content for each piece of information and formatted it. In this process, I adopted the ABC of the second title B) Bauhaus design theory.
Bauhaus aims to unite art, craft and technology, emphasizing functional design and the fusion of fine art with everyday objects.
F.2.1 Adobe InDesign Process 3.9.2023
F.2.2 Adobe InDesign Process 3.9.2023
Axial System
F.2.2 Axial System 3.9.2023
Grid System
F.2.3 Grid System 3.9.2023
Bilateral System
F.2.3 Bilateral System 3.9.2023
Random System
F.2.4 Random System 3.9.2023
Radial System
F.2.4 Radial System 3.9.2023
Dilatational System
F.2.5 Dilatational System 3.9.2023
Modular System
F.2.4 Modular System 3.9.2023
Transitional System
F.2.4 Transitional System 3.9.2023
Final Typographic Systems
Fig.2.5 Final Axial System - JPEG (11.9.2023)
Fig.2.6 Final Grid System - JPEG (11.9.2023)
Fig.2.7 Final Bilateral System - JPEG (6.9.2023)
Fig.2.8 Final Random System - JPEG (6.9.2023)
Fig.2.9 Final Radial System - JPEG (6.9.2023)
Fig.2.10 Final Dilatational System - JPEG (6.9.2023)
Fig.2.11 Final Modular System - JPEG (6.9.2023)
Fig.2.11 Final Transitional System - JPEG (6.9.2023)
Fig.2.12 Final Typographic System - PDF (without grids and guides) (6.9.2023 - Week 2)
Fig.2.13 Final Typographic System - PDF (with grids and guides) (6.9.2023 - Week 2)
TASK 1: Exercise 2
Part A - Type and Play
We were asked to choose an image of an artefact, or an object from nature from exercise 2. We then need to analyze and deconstruct the selected images to identify at least 5 potential letter forms. These formats will be thoroughly studied and eventually digitized. After completing the alphabetical form, we need to establish a strong connection between these letters and the visual elements we have chosen to ensure a symbiotic relationship between text and image.
1. Finding an Image
Fig.3.1 Identifying Letterforms from Image 14.9.2023
Fig.3.2 process 14.9.2023
Fig.3.3 Letterforms Poster (13.9.2023 ）
Fig.3.3 Letterforms Poster pdf (13.9.2023 ）
HONOR Competition
We are going to participate in this honor contest, and there are several categories to choose from. I picked out the wallpaper design category, which is divided into two types: foldable wallpapers and regular wallpapers. Our task was to create an overall visual design and animation with a size of 6000 pixels X 3000 pixels, and my theme choice was "Culture Flourishing - celebration."
I chose the Chinese traditional festival Qi xi Festival as the design theme. This is my design introduction The traditional Chinese festival Qi xi, also known as "Chinese Valentine's Day", is a festival full of romance and traditional culture. On this special day, people are eager to get together with their loved ones and share sweet moments. Our Qi xi theme wallpaper with pink moon as the background, symbolizing the romantic atmosphere of Qi xi, there are a pair of magpies flying on the moon, they represent the legendary cowherd and weaving girl, the two hearts are closely linked. The poster is also decorated with gorgeous stars, representing the love of the people's attention, and at this moment, the universe seems to celebrate their meeting. Let us in this Qi xi, together immersed in this romance, looking for their own magpie bridge meeting moment have a good time together.
Fig.4.2 Adobe Illustrator Outline View 10.1
Fig.4.3 Adobe Illustrator Outline View 10.1
Fig.4.5 Final Wallpaper Design
FEEDBACK
Week 1 / Exercise 1
General Feedback: The font size should preferably be between 12pt-18pt.
Week 3 / Exercise 2-A
General Feedback: The horizontal and vertical strokes of the letters should be parallel, and the thickness and size should be consistent.
Specific Feedback: The top of the letter's head cannot be pointed, but flat.
Week 4 / Exercise 2-A
Specific Feedback: The final poster needs to be embraced.
REFLACTION
Experience:
Natural inspiration: Nature is full of shapes, textures, and patterns that can be inspiration for fonts. From the texture of the leaves to the surging of the waves, creativity can be stimulated.
Observe:
Shapes and curves: When observing natural objects, pay attention to the shapes and curves in them. The branches of a tree may have graceful curvatures, and the petals of a flower may take on a unique shape, both of which can be used to design letters and numbers.
Color and texture: Colors and textures in nature are also a treasure trove of design inspiration. For example, rocks in nature can exhibit colorful textures that can be used to render special effects of fonts.
Finding：
Uniqueness: Every natural object has its own uniqueness. Taking inspiration from nature can help you design fonts that stand out and make your posters stand out.
FURTHER READINGS
Fig.4.1 Typography, Referenced (2012)
Typography referenced is an impressive book that delves into all aspects of the art of typography. Although the book was published in 2012, its content remains of enduring value and inspiration.
In the book, the author details the history, principles, and techniques of typography. They conducted in-depth discussions on various aspects from font design, font construction, layout planning to the use of typesetting software, so that readers can better understand and appreciate the complexity of typography art. In particular, on page 37, the author explains in detail the design principles of the Helvetica typeface, as well as its importance in the history of typography. Helvetica typeface is a highly influential typeface whose simplicity, clarity, and versatility have made it the first choice for many design projects.
Typography referenced is an in-depth and insightful book that will appeal not only to typography enthusiasts and designers, but also to anyone interested in words and visual communication. Through this book, I have a better understanding of the complexity and importance of typography, and also have a deeper understanding of type design and layout planning. It sparked my interest in exploring the field further and how to apply the art of typography to my design work.
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