The three dimensional typefaces of Joseph Churchward
AB3D is a project that explored the question: 'How can I bring typefaces to life three-dimensionally?'. Three typefaces were chosen from the New Zealand typographer,Joseph Churchward. Creating the typographic objects required researching the historical context surrounding each typeface, and multiple experiments with 3D fabrication techniques and various materials. From the process came AB3D: three sets of 3D typefaces displaying quotes from Churchward, three display boxes and three booklets that detail how each of the typefaces were created.
The field of typography is incredibly varied and versatile, but often restrained to a flat surface. In this project, I wanted to explore how I could take a set of letterforms and recreate them in a three-dimensional space. I focussed on the work of prolific New Zealand type designer Joseph Churchward. I chose three typefaces from over 600 that he designed over his career, and used my fabrication skills to reform them as objects.
The making of the project required me to approach this design challenge heuristically, and my previous experience with 3D surfaces and materials allowed me to tap into tacit knowledge. Choosing to emulate multiple typefaces from Churchward’s catalogue allowed me to prototype various forms of fabrication. Dissecting Churchward’s projects created further meaning for my own project as I explored the context and history of Churchward's long career.
The outcome was three sets of designed objects, which each included a 3D typeface housed in a display case with an accompanying booklet that showcases the process of how each typeface was brought to life.
