Data graphics are magical. Come learn how to make pictures that can help us discover and discuss otherwise invisible phenomena. We will dissect the elements that make data graphics spectacular, ranging from choosing effective visual metaphors to picturing uncertainty and the subtle art of color-encoding. We will critique and we will make. Our emphasis will […]
This event, produced by AIGA/SF, features an expansive visual presentation by Richard Danne with projects from his stellar new book: “Shooting for the Stars,” a six-decade celebration of timeless design. The book’s 248 colorful pages include successful programs / projects which have stood the test of time – for diverse clients like NASA to FIT; Paramount to […]
The text block is fundamental to creating any typographic system, whether on the page or on screen. But what typeface to use and at what size? How do we determine line length and leading? And what about readability and hierarchy? Over the course of two days (Saturday to Sunday, September 14–15 from 9am–5pm), we will […]
There is more to the texts of type specimens than the ubiquitous "Quousque tandem abutere…" of Cicero’s first oration against Catiline. Careful reading of type specimens, especially those of the nineteenth century, reveals widespread patriotism, jingoism, and cultural chauvinism; historical and literary allusions; references to topical events; wordplay, sophomoric humor, and parody; and bald self-promotion. […]
With Sharp Earth, type designer Lucas Sharp sought to answer the question, "Is it possible to design a typeface for the whole world?" What began as a series of sketches drawn on a road trip through Thailand would eventually become Sharp Type’s largest typeface family to date. Developed in close collaboration with local type experts […]
Letterform Archive’s fifth gallery exhibition, Amos Paul Kennedy, Jr.: Citizen Printer, explores the bold language, graphic typography, and colorful layering in a wide variety of printed artifacts such as broadsides, maps, church fans, handbills and oversized posters produced throughout his career. Encompassing the evolving trajectory of Black liberation in the United States, from growing up in the ’60s during the […]
with Kel Troughton Learn to think systematically about type and make your own font in 10 weeks! (Not in or near San Francisco? See the online version of this workshop.) During this 10-week in-person workshop (Wednesdays from June 12 through August 21. No class on July 3), you'll learn what it takes to create your own […]
with Francisco Roca Learn about the young graphic artist who designed book covers that would become a sensation in ’60s era Argentina, Latin America, and Spain. In 1962, young graphic artist Juan Ángel Cotta died in a car crash. His ongoing work project at the time, 103 covers for Los Libros del Mirasol —one of South […]
See a slice of the Archive and commune with typography lovers during the largest design festival on the West Coast. Where does your design inspiration come from? Maybe it’s time to get off the internet and into the library! Letterform Archive holds one of the world’s best collections of graphic design and typography artifacts. On […]
Craig Frazier visits the Archive to share his new book, Drawn, his career as a designer and illustrator, and his obsession with big ideas. As an internationally recognized designer and illustrator, Craig’s work is known for its simplicity, intelligence, and wit. He will talk about his orientation to design as a drawer which eventually led to […]
Join us for an in-depth exploration of Design Action Collective’s archives with designer and educator Sabiha Basrai. Design Action Collective was founded in the early 2000s by two members of Inkworks Press. For over 20 years, the shop has been producing graphics to serve social justice campaigns and grassroots organizations. This salon will feature […]
with Stephen Coles, Rob Saunders The CODEX and ABAA fairs are back in town! We’re gathering book makers and lovers for a special IN-PERSON reception. To celebrate the CODEX IX Book Fair and the 56th California International Antiquarian Book Fair, Letterform Archive welcomes book lovers for a special reception and salon. Join us for drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and […]