Research Background:

“Five A’s Three Ways” and “Eight A’s” are two original creative works that experiment with various analogue and digital tools. “Five A’s Three Ways” is a triptych of letterpress prints created with laser-cut “type high” wood and acrylic blocks. “Eight A’s” extends on the original images, featuring an animated digital Augmented Reality overlay. “Five A’s Three Ways” was completed with the assistance of Bacon Factory printmaker Clint Harvey.

Research Contribution:

These two works continue from previous experimental outputs that challenge typographic conventions through overlapping mismatched letterforms. In this instance, an extensive range of custom letterforms were created, with a selection of these randomly selected and assembled into the final printed outcomes. Some of the discarded letterforms were later added to the work using digital Augmented Reality software. The works expand design and typography discourses by challenging our perception of letterforms and legibility when removed from their usual communication context. The second work, “Eight A’s”, contributes to contemporary printmaking practices by applying digital technology to augment a traditionally printed image.

Research Significance:

“Five A’s Three Ways” was exhibited at Conkling Gallery at the Minnesota State University in Mankato, Minnesota, supported by the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA). The exhibition featured various artists and designers from around the world, with a jury of North American design studios selecting the work included in the show. Having seen “Eight A’s” featuring a digital AR overlay on social media, the UK based Printmaking Today magazine (2019 Summer Edition p.9) included my practice as part of a showcase on expanded printmaking practice.