In this lecture we explored the depth of typeface and the effects it can have in an overall project. We were refreshed on the history of typeface and it’s evolution through the printing press. The old, script typefaces, such as those in the Book of Kells conveyed a rather frozen tone. This is much to do with the laborious effort of producing publications before the printing press and the fact that mainly religious scripture was only deemed important enough to be published. The funding from the church also motivated this and gave them a lot of control over what was published at this time.
We learned about the importance of type specimen screens and the integral role they played in design firms before they moved mainly to web format. Through type specimens, foundries were able to advertise typefaces for the characteristics in which they were designed around. This means we have a wealth of information surrounding typefaces and the tone they can convey. Careful selection of type can dictate the design of a project and a lot of design systems and interfaces have a heavy reliance on the chosen typeface.
Type Specimens
We were tasked with creating type face personas for an assigned typeface based on the knowledge we acquired about the different tones typefaces can convey. I felt that Orpheus Pro conveyed a clean and stylish feeling. This font seems to draw upon the traditional feel of serif fonts and present them in a slightly more contemporary feel which has been timeless since it’s creation in 1920. It resembles the fun mantra of the roaring 20’s which is why I felt the persona was also a fun-loving 20 something year old who was also economically savvy. While it is fun, it isn’t garish, which is why this persona has her life together and is making moves in the right direction. I really enjoyed this exercise and it helped me to fully analyse typefaces in a lateral way which I hadn’t done before.
This lecture really changed the way I view typefaces. In my past projects, I feel as though I didn’t prioritise careful consideration and selection of type enough. Such a quick decision can have massive effects on a project. Choosing an unsuitable typeface can have catastrophic affects on the entire project. Going forward, I will definitely be more selective in the way I choose typefaces. I would like to dedicate a number of days this week for exploring type faces and choosing the correct one for my banking app project.