Collective Alphabet

To kickoff P1, we’ll work together to make a collective, modular, alphabet. Keep in mind… What is a modular typeface? What are strategic ways of drawing letters? What are expressive ways of drawing letters using a systemic approach (like the provided)?

We'll be working in this file for the exercise: Collective Alphabet in Figma

References

• FontStruct, modular typeface tool
• Jurriaan Schrofer
• Wim Crouwel
• Tauba Auerbach
• Muir McNeil
• Excel Art by Daniel Aubert
• Super Mario Bros in Excel

Instructions Part 1
In Part 1 of the exercise, you will draw a series of characters in black and white using a 12x12 grid in Figma.

1. Open the Collective Alphabet in Figma file
2. Find your name in the file, you’ll be responsible for designing the black and white letter for the row next to and below your name.
3. You’ll see that there are two 12x12 grids per letter. In the left column, highlight cells in black to draw the assigned letter by changing the fill of each square.

Instructions Part 2
In Part 2 of the exercise, you will exchange letters with your classmates, and using their work as a base – create a colored ‘state’ of their letters. We'll talk more about this next class!

Next Steps
In the same project (CSS Typeface) in Figma, create a new file and name it [lastname_firstname-type_sketches]. In this file design two unique modular directions for each of your "Collective Alphabet" characters. This means 4 designs total. Each character can reuse a concept, or have a totally unique design. Be prepared to share all your designs with the group next week.