Chapter 1 Discussion

The images i have chosen to discuss in this chapter are pictures 12, 51, and 94.

The first image I've chosen, of the parthenon, is interesting because I'm not entirely sure how it relates to Typography. What I do know about the parthenon however, is that it's architectural dimensions are a work of design genius. It is said that a mathematician named Phidias, of which the greek symbol Phi is from, designed the building around the mathematical principles of the golden ratio. What's particularly interesting about this design is that mathematicians claim that the golden ratio is found in nature: The human body, facial makeup, sunflowers, conch shells etc. Because of this, the parthenon is not only structurally sound, but also excruciatingly beautiful.

The second image, an illustrated "T" is particularly nice. Back from the times of yore when text was hand rendered or pressed, this specific illustrated capital is a beautifully drawn rendering of a floral T. It expresses creativity and regalness in the book, that otherwise would have just been text. It shows a true eye for character integration with art, that allowed for a more creative way of expressing the words on the printed page.

Finally, image 94, of a poster printed with wood type from the 1830's is one of my favorite styles of typograhy. Despite it's cheesy, mix-mashed design stylings, it is a throwback to a different time. The use of at least five typefaces truly gives the piece a unique, and confusing look to it; The beauty of this style is that you can't help but stare at it. It demands attention, without the modern day hype of design elements such as white-space, helvetica, or any of the other tried but true aspects that we learn in a course such as this.