ADVANCED TYPOGRAPHY TASK 1
Task 1: Exercise
April 21, 2025 21/04/2025 - 12/05/2024(Week 1 - Week 3)
WangJiheng/ 0378904
Typography / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media / Taylor's University
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Communication is the core of typography, and standards such as hierarchy, reading order, readability, and contrast are the keys to achieving effective communication. This makes me realize that typography is by no means just a simple arrangement of text, but an important means of conveying information through visual elements.
I was deeply impressed by the analogy of the typography system to the shape grammar of architecture in the video. Just as shape grammar provides rules and purpose for architectural design, the typography system also builds a framework for design, endowing works with order and logic.
1. Axial System
As I study this system, I've learned that elements are arranged on the left or right side of an axis. The key technique here is grouping information and placing elements at different angles. This approach not only organizes content but also adds a dynamic visual feel.
2. Radial System
What fascinates me about the radial system is that all elements extend from a single focal point and fan out around it. It creates a strong sense of centralization, which is great for drawing the viewer's attention directly to the core message.
3. Expansion System
The expansion system starts from a central point and grows outwards in a circular manner. I find it really clever how information can be structured hierarchically across different circular rings. This makes it easy to present content with varying levels of importance.
4. Random System
At first glance, the random system seems chaotic, with no obvious patterns or relationships. But as I dig deeper, I realize there’s an underlying order. It’s all about embracing creativity and the beauty in apparent disorder, which challenges my traditional ideas of layout.
5. Grid System
The grid system is the most commonly used one, and I often see it in various designs. By adjusting grid sizes and line thicknesses, I can establish a clear visual hierarchy. It provides a structured and organized way to layout content, ensuring a sense of balance and professionalism.
6. Transition System
In the transition system, information is presented in layers of strips. I’m learning that playing with thickness, color, and size differences can significantly enhance readability and make the composition more engaging. It’s a great way to guide the viewer’s eye through the content.
7. Modular System
The modular system uses standardized units, and I love its flexibility. These units can be easily moved around the page, allowing for endless layout possibilities. It gives me a lot of freedom to experiment and create unique designs.
8. Bilateral System
The bilateral system arranges text symmetrically along an axis. While it’s commonly used for formal settings, I’m excited to explore how innovative applications can make it more interesting. It shows that even traditional layouts can be adapted creatively.
These are the key points I’ve grasped about these eight typography layout systems so far. I’m really looking forward to learning more about practical examples and advanced techniques for each system.
Composition is an important concept in design, but special considerations are required when applying it to layout. Details are as follows:
1. The video discusses the application of design principles (such as emphasis, symmetry, repetition, etc.) in layout, as well as the differences between them and visual images.
2. In addition, the Rule of Thirds and the grid system (especially in the style of Swiss modernism) are introduced.
3. Postmodern layout methods are introduced, including the exploration of chaos, randomness, and asymmetry.
4. Finally, systems such as environmental grids and formal movements are also introduced in the video, aiming to provide students with more ideas and methods for layout composition.
For our very initial exercise, we are required to create 8 layouts by utilizing the typographical systems that we've studied.
In the preliminary sketches of designing these eight poster designs
Fig 2-1 Draft of the Transitional System
Fig 3.3 Dilatational System（2025.4.29）
Fig 3.4 Random System （2025.4.29）
Fig 3.5 Grid System（2025.4.29）
Fig3-6 Modular System （2025.4.29）
Fig3-9 Typographic System Final Week3
Fig3-9 Typographic System Final (Grid / Baseline)Week3
Exercise 2—Type & Play
Fig 4.1 Image and Extraction Week 3 (8/05/2024)
Fig 4.2 Overall Process Week 3 (8/05/2024)
Fig 4.3 Reference font Week 3 (8/05/2024)
Fig 4.4 Comparison between the Original Extraction (top)
and the Final Letterform (bottom), Week 3 (8/5/2024)
Fig4.6 Exercise 2 Part 1 PDF Compilation Week 3 (11/5/2025)
FEEDBACK
Week 1:
In the first - week class, the teacher talked about the requirements and formats of the e - portfolio, explained the assignment requirements, posted a notice on Teams, and stated what should be done after the first - week class and before the second - week class.
Week 2:
In the second week, the teacher carefully reviewed our posters and assignments. She gave detailed feedback, suggesting ways to refine our designs. Motivated by her guidance, we polished our work thoroughly to get ready for submission.
Week 3:
In the third week, I submitted the fonts I extracted from the pictures and the evolution of my design fonts. My feedback was that I should show the fonts I chose in the pictures more clearly. This is the most important thing. Complete the electronic portfolio this week.
REFLECTION
In this module, I've acquired a wealth of knowledge. I started by watching a series of videos and lectures posted by the teacher. Subsequently, I designed 8 posters and revised numerous others. This hands-on experience significantly enhanced my proficiency in creating posters that meet diverse requirements.
When working on the second project, I carefully selected a photo and crafted the corresponding text. Unfortunately, the initial attempt didn't turn out as expected. So, I decided to redraw the poster and redesign the font. Thanks to the learning process in this module, I've developed the ability to extract inspiration from photos to discover new fonts and create movie posters. Overall, this module has been an incredibly rewarding learning journey.
FURTHER READINGS
《Typographic Design: Form and Communication》(6th Edition), because it is an "encyclopedia" of typographic design that bridges history and modernity, and integrates theory and practice.
Reasons for Recommendation:
Authoritative and Classic: Co-written by senior scholars in the industry, it has gone through six editions of updates. It's a core textbook in design schools worldwide, covering everything from the typesetting logic of movable - type printing to the digital age.
Substantial Content: Starting from the structure of letters (like serifs, counters), it delves into the grid system and dynamic typesetting, deconstructing the "underlying code" of typesetting layer by layer. It not only analyzes the principles but also provides practical cases (such as the visual system design of the US National Parks).
Keeping Pace with the Times: It takes into account both traditional printing aesthetics and new scenarios like screen typesetting and interactive design, answering practical questions like "Why are some characters clearer on - screen?" and "How to make dynamic text tell a story?".
Rich in Cases: It covers cases from multiple fields such as posters, books, logos, and web pages. From the minimalist grids of the Swiss style to experimental font deconstructions, it inspires design ideas.
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