The third dimension: 3D Typography

Considered a signature course of the Graphic Design program in the UIC School of Design, Sharon developed the curriculum for creating three-dimensional typography and teaches this junior-level course on a regular basis. Creating letterform objects through analog methods, students learn about type anatomy, spatial design constructs, fabrication techniques, collaboration skills, accuracy and handcrafting. To supplement this process, two-dimensional translations are created on the basis of the three-dimensional type. Other project components may include photographic documentation, a documentation book, video documentation, a group publication, and the semester-end exhibition.

The course begins with a quick warmup exercise in three-dimensional sketching (making with paper). Then, in the first several weeks, students undergo workshops and short assignments. The workshops may include Intro to the Project Lab (wood and metal shop), Intro to the Fabrication Lab (laser cutting), Advanced Fabrication Lab (3D modeling and printing), and Language Workshop (design writing). The duration of the short assignments are one week each, in which students create letterforms based on an operating measure or concept: Material & modularity, Negative space, Technique (laser cutting), Scale or function, and Character depiction. Of the various letterform objects created in these assignments, students select one to serve as the foundation and direction of a larger longterm project.