Project Overview
Create two distinct typographic compositions that visually express the meaning of chosen words or phrases using fundamental graphic design principles. Select a word or word pair that conveys action or imagery and choose a versatile type family with multiple weights.
Using only letterforms in Adobe Illustrator, explore size, direction, position, weight, balance, contrast, and whitespace to enhance meaning—without creating literal visual representations. Each composition must use a different word or phrase, and type should not be distorted or altered beyond its original form.
Additional Information
Year: September 2024
Type: Typography
Software: Adobe Illustrator
Rationale
The chosen words for the compositions were "squish" and "magnet." The process began with exploring various typefaces to determine which ones were most suitable, focusing on those with extensive font families.
For "squish," the concept was inspired by the crowded conditions of the TTC subway during rush hour, where passengers are tightly packed together. To reflect this feeling of congestion, a bold typeface with minimal straight lines was selected, emphasizing movement as people sway back and forth when the train comes to an abrupt stop. The letters were deliberately placed close together to convey the sense of tightness and limited space visually.
In the "magnet" composition, emphasis and balance were key considerations. The letter "N" was designed to function as the magnet, with the surrounding letters appearing to cling to it. This arrangement created a sense of flow, reinforcing the idea of attraction and connection within the composition.
