In this workshop we'll analyze, explore, and practice some of the more popular lettering styles while learning about the historical background, tools, drawing techniques, type parameters, and conceptual frameworks. We will mostly be using an analog approach in our explorations.

We will study the foundations of roman, italic, script, block, brush lettering. We will modify, mix and extrapolate many of the rules and features of the classics to create letterforms with a unique personality. We will define a brief to create a piece of lettering under a dynamic and iterative process that will allow us to try many design directions for the same intended purpose.

Audience and Format

This workshop is for lettering enthusiasts that have some experience drawing letters and feel trapped or limited by their own style. The participants need basic drawing skills, patience, resilience and have to be willing to embrace happy mistakes.

Goals

• Developing a new perspective on lettering by gaining a better understanding of letterforms
• Establishing workflow from idea, through sketching and iterating, to a final piece of lettering
• Practice observing, analyzing and being critical during the creative process
• Understanding foundations through classic models
• Understanding tools to confidently explore new styles and create an original piece of lettering

Learning Outcomes

• Understanding of basic lettering principles such as composition, hierarchy, use of color, etc.
• Understanding of type design parameters in order to create a piece of lettering such as spacing, consistency, rhythm, etc.
• Understanding classic models and how to adapt them
• Learning to define a brief for a lettering project
• Learning to explore and set a design direction for a lettering piece
• Setting up a workflow and iterating through a mostly analog approach

Material Requirements

• A computer with reliable Internet connection
• A free Zoom account
• A free Slack account (an invitation to a class group will be sent to each participant)
• Flat brush and broad edge tools
• Pointed brush and pointed nibs
• Inks for nibs
• Tempera, gouache
• Drawing tools (Pencils, eraser, whiteout, rulers, etc.)
• Tracing paper or Marker Paper
• Scissors and tape
• Optional: Vector based drawing software (i.e. Illustrator, Robofont, Glyphs)

Scholarship Information

Scholarship seats are available for this course. Please check out more details on the scholarship page. This scholarship is open to all Black, Indigenous, and other people of color, with priority given to those who have limited resources or access to educational opportunities.