Project Three :: Part One, Cropping

Pick a lowercase letter from the following:
a b c d e f g h k m n p q r s t u v w

Then, pick two typefaces from our font list. The typefaces should have different formal characteristics but be close in stroke thickness (weight). Construct two L-shaped masks from black or white paper or board. The angles should be cleanly cut and 90°.

Crop your letter 15 different ways, making drawings of each cropping, making sure they are square. As you crop in different ways, your square will alter its size, so scale your finished crops with the photocopier to achieve a consistent size of 3 inches for all compositions. Draw with pencil first, then carefully fill in with sharpie or black ink. Attempt compelling, dynamic compositions that exemplify the potential of the form and counterform (positive/negative) inherent in the letter. Begin by creating an even balance of positive and negative space, while maintaining legibility. Each letter will present unique challenges. Your solutions should be precisely drawn and trimmed down to perfect squares.

Homework
Create 15 more sketches using the same letter in the a second typeface. At least four of the new sketches should have the same placement as the first series of croppings. This will allow you to compare differences in the design of each letterform.