5 things to read and see
This week, read about a map of the typographic universe and the flooding in Houston, and see an awesome cover for a guide to food and fun.
5 things to read
1. A map of the typographic universe, drawn by AI
IDEO just launched a new tool called Font Map that explores the similarities and differences of over 750 typefaces from Google Fonts. The map was created by two algorithms and had a bit of help from some professional designers.
2. Pentagram and the case of the forgotten typeface
This article dives into the history of Syracuse’s branding and how research led to the discovery of a link between the typeface designer Goudy and the school, which became the inspiration behind the rebrand.
3. To Kill a Mockingbird; 19 Impressive covers from around the world
It’s interesting to see how a variety of different designers can take the same content yet come up with wildly different designs. These 19 covers for To Kill a Mockingbird are all unique and beautifully done.
4. Flooding after Harvey: How bad is it, how bad will it get, and when will it end?
This graphics article by The Washington Post does an incredible job visualizing the flooding and damage that has occurred in Houston. Graphics explain oil refineries that closed, gauges that have recorded and predicted flood levels and the worst flooded areas.
5. Visual sugar
As explained in this article, visual sugar is decoration without meaning. It’s easy to decorate designs in order to give them flair, but it’s definitely more important to focus on the meaning and themes of the content and not just making things look pretty.
5 things to see
- Food & fun guide | Washington Square News, New York University
This guide is overall super consistent and cohesive and does a great job bringing together elements of photography and art into a really fun and eye-catching edition.
2. Head-centric | The Daily Orange, Syracuse University
This is a really interesting article about the history of football helmets, and using cutouts of the actual helmets really brings the story to life. The breakdowns of the helmets are short and sweet, and keeps the article interesting to those who aren’t super interested in sports.
3. A team transition | Central Michigan Life, Central Michigan University
I think using the super close up photo of the football is a really unique photo to use and the shifting type also helps to convey the point of the headline. I just wish the teasers in the corner were easier to read.
4. Best of UH | Ka Leo, University of Hawaii at Manoa
I love featuring the campus in this page. The ballot box is also a great, simple symbol of the voting process. It’s simple and effective, but I just wish there was a drop cap to focus your eye on the start of the text.
5. Oregon’s offense and its need for speed | The Daily Emerald, University of Oregon
I think the spread for this page is really clean and easy to read. The photos are great, and I think the lines of color extending from them help to convey the movement associated with football. And it keeps the page from looking too text-heavy.
If you think you have a well-designed page or a good read to share for the next roundup, email me at shays2@elon.edu
Students, did you know you can join the Society for News Design for as little as $5 a month?
