Project
The goal of this project was to design a unique typeface using influences from historical typefaces, as well as a type specimen book to highlight the aspects of the type.
Keen is a unique, three-dimensional blackletter typeface sketched by hand and then digitally built as a one weight uppercase typeface with 26 characters, 10 numerals, and 13 symbols. It was inspired by historical hand lettering and Milton Glaser’s typeface, “Kitchen”.
At its core, Keen has a blackletter base, but with its dimensionality, it is unlike any other. It has sharp points and angles, accompanied with bold blocks, which makes it perfect for display. Because of it’s unconventional and edgy appearance, it works well as a typeface for aspects of the entertainment industry with similar aesthetics.
The type specimen uses elements relative to film and music with stage and film imagery, as well as lyrics from Madvillain’s Rhinestone Cowboy (2004). It is a song by an unconventional hip hop artist who went against the grain of popular hip hop at the time. The song references a 70’s country song about rising to fame. Rhinestone Cowboy and its concept represent Keen and its potential fame as a usable font.
School
