ELEMENTS
OF TYPOGRAPHY 3
The
Abstract Elements
The
interaction between the abstract elements of positive shape
and negative space is an important consideration in the
design of good typography.
Positive
Shape - Negative Space
By
positive shape we mean the shape of the letter itself.
By
negative space we mean the background shapes between the
letters.
Equally
balanced positive shapes and negative space interlock to
create a strong architectural quality in the Logan font.
If
you look closely you will see that a little trickery has
been used to manipulate the positive shapes and negative
space of this Stencil font.
A
careful balance between positive and negative elements was
essential to create the rhythm and vitality of this script
font. Script or calligraphic fonts, like Luftwaffe, should
be avoided if you are looking for legibility.
Ravie
is a fun font for those who place stylistic effect over
legibility. Although it looks improvised and intuitive,
there is a calculated balance between its positive shapes
and negative spaces. This effect is made more visible
by the circle which highlights its animated and abstract
qualities.
The
elephant is a beast of burden and the Elephant font reflects
this quality. Like steel girders, its characters look to
be able to support a great weight. The balance between the
strength and delicacy of their positive and negative forms
adds a sense of refinement to this typographic powerhouse.
The
interaction between the positive and negative shapes of
the Wide Latin font evokes the dynamic forms of Geometric
Abstraction in mid 20th century painting.
TYPOGRAPHY
DESIGN LESSON
Typography
is the Art and Design of Printed Text.
In
this lesson we look at the elements that contribute to good
typographic design and then use that knowledge to create
a logotype (a logo composed of typography).
The
aim of this lesson is to explore the expressive potential
of typography.
The
task in this lesson is to create a logotype that reflects
a feature of Glasgow
Museums. The design is to be composed only from the
letters ‘GM’ and existing fonts. It should also
include the ‘municipal green’ colour of Glasgow.
This
lesson can easily be adapted to include any museum in any
locality.
LOGOTYPE
EXAMPLES
Click
on a link for information about the elements of typography or an explanation
of each logotype design.
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