Typography - Task 2: Typographic Exploration and Communication
20.05.2024 - / Week 5 - Week 7
HUANG JIAQI/ 0371553
Typography / Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media
Task 2: Typographic Exploration and Communication
LIST
1.MIB
2.Task 2: Typographic Exploration and Communication
3.Feedback
4.Reflection
5.Further Reading
5.Further Reading
This is mine MIB
LECTURES
All lectures are completed in Task 1: Exercises 1 & 2
Week 5 Letters
Understanding letterforms
The uppercase letter forms below suggest symmetry, but in fact it is not symmetrical. It is easy to see the two different stroke weights of the Baskerville stroke form (below); more noteworthy is the fact that each bracket connecting the serif to the stem has a unique arc.
Form / Counterform
Just as important as recognizing specific letterforms is developing a sensitivity to the counterform (or counter)—the space describes, and often contained, by the strokes of the form. When letters are joined to form words, the counterform includes the spaces between them.Its worth noting here that the sense of the ‘S’ holds at each stage of enlargement, while the ‘g’ tends to loose its identity, as individual elements are examined without the context of the entire letterform.
Class Summary
WEEK 6
Mr. Vinod briefed us on the next task—Task 2: Typographic Exploration and Communication. In this task, we are required to combine what we have learned in the exercises of Task 1 (type expression and text formatting) and apply it here. We are asked to watch the demo video for Task 2 and draw some layout sketches before starting to create the type expression in the headline and compose the layouts in InDesign. Mr. Vinod has clearly outlined all the requirements for this task.
Lecture 6: Typo_6_Understanding
1. Understanding letterforms
The uppercase letterforms below suggest symmetry, but in fact, it is not symmetrical. The asymmetrical letterforms below are both internally harmonious and individually expressive.
Baskerville stroke form: two different stroke weights can be easily seen
Univers stroke form: a close examination shows that the width of the left slope is thinner than the right stroke
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| fig 1.1 left: Baskerville 'A'; right: Univers 'A' |
The complexity of each individual letterform is neatly demonstrated by examining the lowercase ‘a’ of two seemingly similar sans-serif typefaces—Helvetica and Univers. A comparison of how the stems of the letterforms finish and how the bowls meet the stems quickly reveals the palpable difference in character between the two.
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| fig 1.2 left: Helvetica 'a'; right: Univers 'a' |
2. Maintaining x-height
X-height generally describes the size of the lowercase letterforms. Curved strokes, such as in ‘s’, must rise above the median (or sink below the baseline) in order to appear to be the same size as the vertical and horizontal strokes they adjoin.
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| fig1.3 Lowercase maintaining x-height |
3. Form and Counterform (Counter)
The space describes, and often contained, by the strokes of the form. When letters are joined to form words, the counterform includes the spaces between them. Counterform has the same importance as the letterforms as it helps to recognize the shape of the letters and assure the readability of the words.
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| fig 1.4 Form and counterform |
We could examine the counterform of letters by enlarging each letter and analysing them. It could give us a glimpse into the process of letter-making.
fig1.5
4. Contrast
The design principle of Contrast is also applied in typography. The simple contrasts produce numerous variations: small+organic / large+machines; small+dark / large+light, etc.
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| fig 1.6 Contrast in typography |
2.Task 2: Typographic Exploration and Communication
For task 2, we must create a 2-page editorial version (200 x 200) with the provided text. Images or colors are not allowed, but secondary graphic elements, such as lines, shadows, etc., are allowed. We will use Adobe InDesign for typesetting and expression of text, and allow the use of Adobe Illustrator for title expression.
According to the three articles given by the teacher, I chose two for preliminary design and trial, and I tried a total of 4 times.
1. Sketches
fig 2.1Typographic Exploration and Communication Sketches（28/5/2024）
In the teacher's feedback, the teacher asked me to find some materials to understand the design and help me understand and complete my homework according to the bauhaus design principles.
reference
fig 2.6Typographic Exploration and Communication Image reference（3/6/2024）
fig 2.7Typographic Exploration and Communication Image reference（3/6/2024）
fig 2.8Typographic Exploration and Communication Image reference（3/6/2024）
fig 2.9Typographic Exploration and Communication Image reference（3/6/2024）
Bauhaus is a German design school founded in 1919. Its design principles have profoundly influenced modern design. The following is a summary of Bauhaus's core design principles:
Bauhaus design principles
1. Function first:
Bauhaus emphasizes the functionality of design and believes that the primary goal of design is to meet actual needs, not just for aesthetics. Each design element should have its own clear function.
2. Simplicity and minimalism:
Bauhaus advocates simple design and abandons superfluous decoration. Design should convey information in the simplest and most direct way.
3. Geometric shape:
Bauhaus often uses basic geometric shapes, such as squares, circles and triangles, which are not only visually neat and orderly, but also effectively express design intentions.
4. Fusion of materials and technologies:
Bauhaus emphasizes the use of new materials and technologies, and encourages designers to explore and use industrial production methods to make the design more modern and practical.
5. Interdisciplinary design:
Bauhaus advocates the integration of different design fields, including architecture, crafts, art, graphic design, etc., and believes that designers should have many skills and knowledge.
6. Non-serif font:
Bauhaus advocates the use of serif fonts (such as Helvetica and Futura) because their lines are simple, easy to read, and in line with the simple aesthetics of modern design.
7. Modularization and standardization:
Bauhaus supports modular design, which is to standardize and modularize design elements, making it easy to produce and combine, thus improving production efficiency and design consistency.
8. Form follow-up function:
This principle emphasizes that the form of design should directly reflect its functional requirements. Beautiful design should be the natural result of functional design, not deliberate decoration.
9. Overall design:
Bauhaus emphasizes the concept of overall design, that is, each design element should be coordinated with the overall design style to form a unified and harmonious visual effect.
Practical application
Furniture design: Bauhaus's furniture design usually adopts simple lines and geometric shapes, focusing on practicality and comfort, such as the Vasili chair designed by Marcel Brauye.
Architectural design: Bauhaus architecture emphasizes functional layout, using reinforced concrete and large area glass, simple appearance and practical space design.
Graphic design: Bauhaus uses serif fonts, grid systems and basic geometric shapes in graphic design to create clear and direct visual effects.
Link
Sum up
The title and layout are clearer and easier to read.
Choose a serif font to enhance modernity and simplicity.
Add geometric decoration to echo the Bauhaus style.
Keep the content of the page balanced, introduce the background on the left, and analyze the impact and principles in depth on the right.
I have a deep understanding of Bauhaus design. According to this design concept, I use geometric shapes and Sans-serif fonts, so as to make my text more neat and orderly, in line with Bauhaus design principles.
Process
Sketch
fig 2.10Typographic Exploration and Communication Sketches（4/6/2024）
After getting feedback from the teacher，I understand the design concept of Bauhaus design theory with simplicity and practicality as the core.I understand the design concept of Bauhaus design theory with simplicity and practicality as the core.
According to the bauhaus principle, I drew 4 sketches. The title is combined with geometric shapes, and the text uses a sans-serif font. Among the four sketches, I chose the fourth one as my final design.
Digitize
fig 2.11Typographic Exploration and Communication Digitize（4/6/2024）
I digitize the title in AI software. I focus on designing bauhaus, combining the title with geometry.
Final idea:
Design language
Geometric shapes: use basic geometric elements such as straight lines, circles and triangles.
Serif fonts: emphasize modernization and clarity, and usually use serif fonts.
The teacher suggested that the reading order of the title should be clear. The current design may confuse readers. You can consider rearranging the title to make it easier to read and understand, such as displaying "the Role of Bauhaus" continuously instead of separating it.
Make sure that the fonts and styles used in the title are consistent with other design elements, especially the "Modern Culture" section. Using similar font sizes and styles helps to create a consistent appearance, using the title and subtitle in the text to balance the design.
The teacher said that he would consider using more abstract expressions in the design. Use geometric shapes (triangles, circles, squares) to represent letters or elements in the title to capture the essence of Bauhaus design principles.
fig 2.13 Typographic Exploration and Communication Teacher's sketch（4/6/2024）
Maintain the consistency of shapes and fonts. For example, use a perfect circle to form the letter "H" and ensure that all elements have a uniform thickness and style to create a harmonious design.
fig 2.14 Typographic Exploration and Communication sketch（6/6/2024）
fig 2.15 Typographic Exploration and Communication Teacher's sketch（6/6/2024）
According to the sketch and the teacher's suggestion, the following is my final product.
Final Typographic Exploration and Communication JPEG
Margins: 14 mm
Gutter: 10 mm
Headline:Font:Bembo Std Body:Font Bembo Std Type Size: 9 ptLeading: 12 ptParagraph spacing: 12 ptCharacters per-line: 50 - 60 charactersAlignment: left justified
Body:
Font Bembo Std
Type Size: 9 pt
Leading: 12 pt
Paragraph spacing: 12 pt
Characters per-line: 50 - 60 characters
Alignment: left justified
Final Typographic Exploration and Communication PDF
fig 2.18 Typographic Final Exploration and Communication (without grids) - PDF（6/6/2024）
fig 2.19 Typographic Final Exploration and Communication ( grids) - pdf（6/6/2024）
3.Feedback
Week6：General feedback:
-Caption is usually placed below the image.
-Finalise Task 1.
Specific feedback:1. Understand the content:
First of all, we need to understand the basic concepts and design concepts of Bauhaus. Bauhaus is a German design school that emphasises the design principles of modernity, geometry and f Unction first.
Week7:
1. Rearrange the title:
Make the title "The Role of Bauhaus" easy to read in a continuous way.
2. Font consistency:
The title and the subtitle of the "Modern Culture" section use the same font style.
3. Highlight the key points:
Extract and highlight important people and concepts from the text.
4. Balanced design:
Use the content of the text to balance the negative space instead of adding irrelevant large pieces of text.
5. Abstract design:
Use geometric shapes to form the letters of the title "Bauhaus" in an abstract way.
6. Unified shape:
Ensure that the geometry used for letters has a uniform thickness and style.
week8:this is fine. however, is the underlined 'THOUGHT ON' an intended design or mistake
4.Reflection
week6：
1. Understand the Content:
Basic Concepts: First, understand the fundamental concepts and design principles of Bauhaus. Bauhaus is a German design school that emphasizes modernity, geometric shapes, and functional design.
2. Select the Subject:
- Theme Selection: The teacher suggests choosing a theme that is easier for you to understand, such as Bauhaus. This is because Bauhaus, as a design movement, has a clear design language and principles.
3. Design Language and Principles:
- Research: Conduct thorough research to understand Bauhaus's design language and principles. This includes:
- Geometric shapes
- Sans-serif fonts
- Functional design
- Inspiration: Draw inspiration from these design principles and incorporate them into your design.
Week 7 Thoughts
I concentrated on finishing a project regarding Bauhaus design in Week 7. Through this project, I was able to gain a deeper grasp of Bauhaus design principles as well as an appreciation for the significance of each and every aspect in the design process.
What I Discovered 1. Principles of Design:
The idea that "form follows function," which is highly valued in Bauhaus, was central to my entire design process. I came to see that usefulness and functionality are just as important to design as looks.
2. Applying Geometric Forms: I played around with forming the letters in the title by experimenting with basic geometric forms like squares, triangles, and circles. This method mirrored the Bauhaus aesthetic of minimalism while also enhancing the design's abstract quality.
Difficulties Met
It was difficult to design the word "Bauhaus" using geometric shapes while keeping it readable. I ultimately discovered a balance after the instructor made numerous corrections and suggestions.
2. Consistency in Design: - It was difficult to keep the layout and font choices consistent throughout the design. I kept the elements in check to make sure they were visually cohesive and harmonious.
Emotions
I now have a profound appreciation for the intricacy of design and the value of creativity thanks to this week's lessons and practice. I gained stronger application skills for design principles and learnt how to use practical application to consistently enhance my work under the instructor's direction.
Week 8: Introspection
The lessons I learned in week eight helped me to further comprehend design. Through hands-on work, I learned more design strategies and tactics.
What I Acquired
1. Text Layout: -I gained knowledge on how to efficiently arrange and format text so that it is both aesthetically pleasing and simple to read. A neat layout makes reading much more enjoyable, especially when working with large blocks of information.
2. Visual Balance: It's important to maintain visual balance in design. I discovered that changing the pieces' sizes, colors, and positions might help create overall balance.
Obstacles Met
1. Managing Details: - Managing details during the design phase presented several difficulties. Every little adjustment could have an impact on the final result, necessitating ongoing optimization and tweaking.
5.Further reading
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The Vignelli Canon (2010) by Massimo Vignelli |
Grid Systems
A grid is a pattern of horizontal and vertical lines that intersect at regular intervals. In typographic design, a grid system is a method for organizing and clarifying text on a page, thereby amplifying its meaning. A grid is not about creating the perfect composition within the frame of the paper trim, but rather about understanding and managing the content effectively. We need to consider:
The amount of text/images
The kinds of text/images
The levels of meaning and importance within the text/images
The relationship between text and images
The relationship between text/images and the reader
Components of the Grid
1. Field
The basic component of any grid.
The height of a field is calculated as a multiple of the text leading (the vertical space between lines of text). Its width is determined by the length of a line of text.
Functions and Applications of Grid Systems
1. Organizing Content
Grid systems help arrange text and images on a page in an orderly manner, making the content easier to read and understand. They provide a structure that allows design elements to be distributed harmoniously across the page.
2. Hierarchical Structure
Grid systems assist designers in establishing a clear hierarchy for text and images. By using different fields and divisions, designers can emphasize important content and help readers quickly find key information.
3. Consistency
Grid systems provide consistency across multiple pages or design projects. Whether it's a book, magazine, or website, using a grid system ensures that all pages have a uniform layout, enhancing the overall coherence of the design.
4. Relationship Between Text and Images
Grid systems help manage the relationship between text and images. By setting fields and divisions, designers can ensure appropriate spacing between images and text, making their relationship clear and meaningful.
5. Reader Experience
A well-designed grid system enhances the reader's experience. With a clear, structured layout, readers can navigate and understand the content more easily.
Conclusion
Grid systems are powerful tools in design, helping to organize and clarify text and images while enhancing their meaning and readability. Understanding the basic components of a grid, such as fields, and how to apply these elements can help designers create visually appealing and functional designs. Grid systems are not just technical tools; they are part of the creative expression that helps designers balance visual appeal and functionality.
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