In this project, I explored the power of typography to create a visually resonant experience that would enhance the reader’s understanding of a text. I was particularly interested in how typesetting could be used to reflect the organic and evolving nature of ideas.
I chose Jenny Odell's essay "On How to Grow an Idea" because I was drawn to its insights on the importance of nurturing ideas and allowing them to grow organically. I felt that this theme could be reflected in the typographic treatment through the use of a variety of fonts, sizes, and weights, as well as strategic use of white space.
I began by doing a deep reading of the text. I wanted to understand the text on a deep level so that I could create a typographic treatment that would be truly reflective of its meaning. I paid attention to the language, the structure, the tone, and the overall message of the text. I also thought about how the printed page could change the meaning of a text. I considered the relationship between text and the page, and how the physical form of the text could affect the way it is read and interpreted.
Ultimately, I decided to use a typographic treatment that was both experimental and playful. I wanted to create a design that would reflect the organic and evolving nature of ideas, and that would encourage readers to slow down and savor the text.
I used a riso printer and a laser printer to print the books. The riso printer is a versatile machine that can produce high-quality prints with a variety of effects. However, it is also known for its quirks, such as misregistration, which is when the colors of the print do not align perfectly. I decided to embrace these quirks as a way to add a sense of handmade touch to the books. The laser printer is a more precise machine, but it can produce a cold and sterile look. I used the laser printer to print the text of the books, while the riso printer was used to print the decorative elements. This combination of techniques created a visual contrast that I felt reflected the duality of ideas, both as organic and evolving entities, and as fixed and tangible objects.
The final product is a set of 10 hand-bound books that are both beautiful and thought-provoking. I hope that they will inspire others to nurture their own ideas and grow them into something meaningful.
