Drawing Type

I run a Typography seminar and workshop for students on the MA Sequential Design/Illustration & MA Arts and Design by Independent Project. We have a very diverse group of students from different experiences and backgrounds so the thought of using type can be daunting. By drawing type students get to look closely at type forms away from a computer & without worrying about the written word. The workshop is structured for them to focus on the letter forms (paper, drawing materials & a variety of type reference is provided). Time is limited to half an hour. In that time they look through type catalogues (again no screens), select a letter form and draw it. They are encourage to look at the shape of the letter form but also the weight, emphasis, balance, proportion and emotional impact. It’s a great way to get students talking about type too as they sit around a table finding letters, sharing materials and comparing their attempts. The resulting letters are displayed in the MA room as an encouraging reminder about typography.