The ability to develop a unique visual identity is of ongoing importance to contemporary graphic designers. Consequently, effectively utilizing the expressive power of hand-lettering remains a vital skill.
This four-day workshop will provide an overview of hand-lettering, with a focus on the process of logotype development. Building on an assortment of techniques, emphasis will be placed on integrating personal lettering approaches with attendees’ individual design methodologies. Examining assorted letter styles from various historical periods, participants will hone their drawing skills as they take a logotype from concept to completion.
A variety of analog and digital production processes will be introduced during the workshop. Comprehensive slide presentations, drawing demonstrations, skill-building exercises and personal critiques will provide further guidance as students acquire a practical foundation for generating and implementing hand-lettering in logotype design.
The following materials are required for the workshop:
- No.2 pencils (conventional or mechanical)
- pencil sharpener, if applicable
- eraser
- pad of tracing paper, at least 8.5″ x 11″
- Sharpie® Fine and Extra Fine marker
- adhesive tape for posting sketches
Although not absolutely necessary, it is recommended that you also have a laptop with a licensed copy of Adobe Illustrator installed.
No prior typography or lettering experience necessary. Open to those of all skill levels.
Register on the Cooper Union Continuing Education Website.
About Ken Barber
Ken Barber is a letterer, type designer and type director at design studio and type foundry House Industries. He is also a partner of Photo-Lettering, Inc., the online lettering-vending service nominated by the Design Museum London as a 2011 Design of the Year recipient. Ken's work is in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian Institution’s Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum and has been honored by the New York Type Directors Club. Association Typographique Internationale recently selected several of his typefaces for inclusion in the organization’s decennial design competition. In addition to teaching at Maryland Institute College of Art, Ken regularly lectures internationally on the subjects of lettering and typography. He also manages typeandlettering.com, an online resource for students and attendees of his frequent workshops.
