Year 1 - Brief two
2
Monograms
Semester
The following presentation is designed as a support to your first identity project - Monograms. It provides a brief history of monograms and also shows some examples of commercial logotypes that are based on the monogram. This is a multifaceted creative exercise designed to: extend your understanding of letter forms. explore positive & negative space. improve your draughtsmanship & crafting skills. develop your accuracy & observational skills. explore the basics of scale & proportion.
Some basic equipment
that
will help
you generate your initial designs
Some advanced equipment
that
will help you
develop & realise you design
you design
you design
These marks opposite have been employed by stone masons for centuries. Carved into the stone buildings and monuments across the globe they provided a unique and long lasting signature.
These marks opposite are hallmarks and were employed by silver smiths to date and sign their work
These marks opposite are what we would traditionally define as classic monograms.
Personal initials combined in ornate scripts. Often used as wax seals or on jewellery i.e. rings, watches etc...
This example above is a well crafted, well balanced, well proportioned demonstration of draughtsmanship. Your design should also demonstrate these qualities.
A classic english monogram. Rolls Royce was founded by Charles Stewart Rolls and Henry Royce on 15 March 1906
Albrecht Dßrer 1471 – 1528 German painter, printmaker, engraver & mathematician. Durers monogram signature is one of the earliest and most famous marks in Northern European art.
Eric Gill (1882 – 1940) British sculptor, typeface designer, stonecutter and printmaker.
Eric Gill monogram circa 1920’s - 30’s
Monogram circa 1920’s - 30’s
Monogram circa 1960’s - 70’s
Monogram circa 1940’s - 50’s
Monogram circa 1960/70’s
Two examples of letter combinations by past Graphics students
Commercial examples of Monograms
Monograms as multiples - patterns
Multiples - patterns
The commercial example above uses the technique opposite very effectively. Once you have see the arrow it is hard not to ignore. It is also a technique that rewards the viewer.
Looking/considering negative space
The monogram and merchandising of Roger Federer
The monogram above is that of Tiger Woods and it is, like Rodger Federer’s, a reflection of his personality and what he stands for. Clean, efficient, accurate, precise, dynamic, masculine
The monogram above subtly reflect the character and values of their personalities. Your task is to design a monogram that reflects you.
Some basic equipment
that
will help
you generate your initial designs