Introduction

Advanced Typography examines type as a medium for information driven and expressive communication. The class places an emphasis on the development of a sophisticated compositional sensitivity to typographic detail. Projects explore the organizational and creative aspects of designing with type and the effect of technological, conceptual, contextual issues on the interpretive and communicative aspects of typography. Project will explore various formats and applications of type in concert with image and color. A review of typographic history, principles and terminology are important aspects of the course. This course is a requirement for all graphic design majors. Prerequisites: ART 051 and 052, or permission of instructor.

This course places an emphasis on long-form, multifaceted typographic projects with a focus on the relationship of type to content, image, and materials. It enables you to refine your ability to solve communication problems through experimentation with type, form, and materiality. It places an emphasis on developing a familiarity with and sensitivity to typography to find solutions to complex communication problems in physical and digital mediums. You are expected to use contextual research to develop concepts and content, and to articulate methods employed to visualize your solutions. Lastly, this course is an opportunity for you to develop a range of portfolio quality pieces that display your passion and skill with the formal qualities of type.

Conceptually, this course will enable you to:
Come to understand type in visual and verbal language, as both context and content
Develop a deeper and broader understanding of how to make and manipulate meaning
Use contextual research as a catalyst for problem-solving
Explore relationships between semantic and visual information
Apply semiotic awareness to your projects
Evaluate analytical, synthetic, and intuitive approaches to problem-solving
Present your methodology verbally (in both written and oral forms)

Formally, this course will enable you to:
Use the principles of visual composition to transmit meaning, values and information
Use grids, typographic form and visual arrangement to create and support content
Experiment with the expressive qualities of typography as an illustrative element
Refine compositions through cycles of iteration, critique, and editing
Analyze the appropriateness of form for a given context
Master the principles of fine typography and composition

Technically, this course will enable you to:
Concentrate on the creation of appropriate typographic hierarchy
Attain a refined awareness of the nuanced relationship between legibility and readability
Further develop your understanding of typographic scale
Refine technical skills for both digital and analog means of production
Effectively manage, develop, design, and produce complex typographic projects