A stupendous introduction to studying the chemical and physical underpinnings of letters
Understanding Molecular Typography, an artist’s book by Woody Leslie, introduces readers to the lost science of molecular typography, the study of the chemical and physical underpinnings of letters. According to molecular typography, all characters are formed from seven basic atomic building blocks: typtoms. These typtoms come together in various combinations to form letters, numbers and punctuation. Typtoms are not just theoretical tools for exploring the anatomy of type, but actual particles.
Leslie brings readers a reprint of the seminal 1992 textbook, Understanding Molecular Typography. Part primer, part field guide, the book makes the science of molecular typography accessible to readers. It lays out the basic principles of the field, followed by detailed diagrams of the molecular formation of type. A conclusion sums up the field to date, and a comprehensive bibliography provides valuable reference for the reader looking to learn more.
Featured image is reproduced from 'H.F. Henderson: Understanding Molecular Typography.'
Friday, November 1 from 6–8 PM, Printed Matter presents the launch of H.F. Henderson: Understanding Molecular Typography, published by Ugly Duckling Presse. Molecular typography is the study of the chemical and biological underpinnings of type. Woody Leslie has spent nearly five years researching this obscure corner of science where biochemistry meets typography, culminating in a reprint of H.F. Henderson’s seminal work. The basics of molecular typography will be explained through lecture and diagrams, followed by an analysis of the ramifications of living type in our daily lives and a Q & A. continue to blog
FORMAT: Pbk, 5 x 7 in. / 128 pgs / 80 b&w. LIST PRICE: U.S. $20.00 LIST PRICE: CANADA $28 GBP £17.50 ISBN: 9781946433305 PUBLISHER: Ugly Duckling Presse AVAILABLE: 10/8/2019 DISTRIBUTION: D.A.P. RETAILER DISC: TRADE PUBLISHING STATUS: Out of stock indefinitely AVAILABILITY: Not available TERRITORY: WORLD
Published by Ugly Duckling Presse. Introduction by Woody Leslie.
A stupendous introduction to studying the chemical and physical underpinnings of letters
Understanding Molecular Typography, an artist’s book by Woody Leslie, introduces readers to the lost science of molecular typography, the study of the chemical and physical underpinnings of letters. According to molecular typography, all characters are formed from seven basic atomic building blocks: typtoms. These typtoms come together in various combinations to form letters, numbers and punctuation. Typtoms are not just theoretical tools for exploring the anatomy of type, but actual particles.
Leslie brings readers a reprint of the seminal 1992 textbook, Understanding Molecular Typography. Part primer, part field guide, the book makes the science of molecular typography accessible to readers. It lays out the basic principles of the field, followed by detailed diagrams of the molecular formation of type. A conclusion sums up the field to date, and a comprehensive bibliography provides valuable reference for the reader looking to learn more.
