Helvetica
On the first day of my continuing studies Type 2 class at MICA, we were told straight off that we were not allowed to use the font Helvetica for any of our projects. The new documentary Helvetica answers why – because it’s everywhere. Despite being everywhere, after watching the documentary- which I loved – I have to say I like the font more now. (Don’t think that was supposed to happen). {poster via helveticafilm.com}
Helvetica is now available on DVD, along with screenings at various museums and institutions. At 7:30 pm on February 12th at MICA, Ellen Lupton will be hosting a screening in conjunction with MICA/Maryland Film Festival.
Speaking of type, what are your thoughts on this new logo for Animal Planet? Personally I think it looks more like a letterpress card than a Discovery Channel logo.
ben and/or anne
February 4, 2008 at 11:14 pm //
I found you through a comment you left on mypolaroidblog (I think that was it??) and have been checking in now and then… I LOVE fonts and am so excited that there is a “font history” of sorts – can’t wait to see it :)
nenny
February 5, 2008 at 2:58 am //
i don’t see why a logo shouldn’t look like a ‘letterpress card’ but more to the point the logo presents numerous typographical problems, mixed size, bad kerning, and why is the M on it’s side?
Prêt à Voyager
February 5, 2008 at 3:09 am //
Oh, I agree with you completely Nenny. I’m just saying that I don’t feel like the logo is appropriate for its purpose, and just not as strong as it could be. The typography feels awkward and uncomfortable. If the “M” on its side is supposed to be an alligator or something, it’s not really working for me. I feel like the mixed letter size does a poor job here of what Paula Scher’s Public theater logo successfully does: http://www.publictheater.org/about/index.php
Profile
February 5, 2008 at 4:52 am //
I have helvetica on my ipod.
It’s a great documentary!
Heather
February 5, 2008 at 7:21 pm //
The Animal Planet logo looks like something created for a middle school yearbook. We all thought we were horribly clever when we were 13, didn’t we?
Your blog always makes for interesting reading!!
Prêt à Voyager
February 5, 2008 at 9:01 pm //
Gotta love Helvetica chocolates: http://www.graphicdesignbar.com/2008/02/sweet-talk-helvetica-chocolates.html