AB3D
Description
AB3D is a project that explored the question: 'How can I bring typefaces to life three-dimensionally?'. I decided to choose three base typefaces from 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 detailing how each of the typefaces were created.
Blackbeauty is a typeface designed in 1972 that had a psychedelic feel. During the 1960s and 1970s, plastics and resins became popular materials for product design. So, to transform this typeface into a 3D typeface, processes of digital modelling, CNC machining, mould making, sanding and polishing were used. The resin letters created were used to spell out the phrase: ‘rough only’ a phrase Churchward often wrote on his work.
Roundsquare is a geometric typeface based on the Wellington Park Mews apartments built in 1973. The use of white clay reflected the look of the apartments and the four accent colours of the building were incorporated by glass slumping. I used clay to create movable type blocks, as a nod to original movable type pieces from China. This gives a brick-like stackability to the phrase which came from one of Churchward's business cards.
Design 70 Lines was made in 1970 and seemingly has Bauhaus influences as well as disco and neon lights. Many processes were experimented with to create this 3D typeface which led to producing the set of spray-painted acrylic pieces. Acrylic, also known as Lucite, became a very popular material in the ‘70s because of its ability to create clean lines which can be seen in this typeface. These letters spell another phrase from one of Churchward's business cards.
