Project. Calendar: Typography in Time and Space

Purpose. To explore typographic signs and their ability to structurally, systematically, and sequentially represent a calendar year. (time). To explore unconventional typographic spatial structures (space). To explore the relationships between type and image.

Assignment. This project consists of two interrelated parts.

Part A: Students create twelve photographic images based upon a theme of their own choice. They are encouraged to examine many subjects, selecting one about which they are particularly intrigued. Students are encouraged to explore a wide range of photographic techniques, including studio setups. The images should relate semantically and syntactically, yet each should also communicate a specific variation within the primary theme. The photographs are arranged sequentially as parts of a continuous and potentially narrative whole.

Part B: After studying conventional calendar systems, students generate notational studies (thumbnail sketches) that explore novel ways of articulating an annual calendar. These typographic sketches are rendered with the collection of photographic images in mind, and with the aim of finding unique formal and conceptual relationships between type and image.

Once viable solutions are identified, students refine components of the design using appropriate computer software.

Principles learned from this project can be applied to a myriad of typographic problems, from exhibition and book design to information graphics.

Format. The basic calendar format is 11x17 inches, twelve pages plus cover, wire-bound at the top edge. As long as the basic 11x17 inch proportion is maintained, exploration of other structural possibilities is encouraged.

Time. Eight weeks.