Typography art is BIG right now. (Sorry, couldn’t resist it.) No self respecting gallery wall is without a typography print or two. But what are the options for introducing some typography art into your home?
Buy it
There is no shortage of fabulous typography art prints to choose from and there are possibilities for any budget.
If you can afford to splurge then you might want to invest in a typography design classic, in which case Playtype should be on your radar. A Danish brand renowned for their font expertise, Playtype produces its own prints, including the iconic “City of Champions”.
Beware though. If this is your typography print of choice, you’ll need to be prepared repeatedly to field the question “why are there letters missing?” (To which the correct response is: “Well, if I have to explain…” accompanied by an appropriately withering look. Obv ous y)
Another go-to for iconic typography is Anthony Burrill, a graphic artist, printmaker and designer who has exhibited at galleries all over the world.
The most well known of his pieces (above) is a mantra which strikes a chord in the design world and beyond. And if the proportion of stylish instagram interiors with this print adorning their walls is anything to go by, we’re a very nice, hard working bunch indeed.
But if your budget is more modest, don’t despair. There are some new kids on the block well worth checking out for prints which are Instagram favourites and fast becoming modern classics.
New Icons of Print have created the glorious City Light collection among a great selection of other typography (as well as photography) prints. And just for you readers, they’re offering 10% disount on all City Lights prints (off-the-peg and custom orders). Use code CITY10. These make perfect gifts I reckon, and with Christmas looming (first mention on this blog. I think that’s acceptable yes?) why not take the chance to get one in the bag. Offer valid until midnight on Thursday 17 November 2016. Be quick!
New Icons of Print, City lights prints range between £20 and £25, including custom prints.
We Are Amused are a Scottish based print company, who have designed a beautifully considered range of typographic and photographic prints. While their website is in development, you can order from them direct through their Instagram account.
We Are Amused, prices from £35.
Print it
Even if your budget is tragically tight, don’t despair. There’s a way you can still treat yourself. A very cost effective option is to download a piece of art and either print it yourself, take it to a local print shop, or use an online print service. (I’m fast becoming best pals with my local print shop after my recent free Audubon art print revelation!)
There are lots of free downloads available (just Google “free downloadable typography art”). However if you’re prepared to spend just a few pounds the range of quality art available is fabulous. Here’s a selection of my favourites.
but first….
Monochrome mood lifters
- ArtCoStore, Etsy, £4.93
- FinlayandNoa, Etsy, £5.23
- printabold, Etsy, £5.93
- StateLinePrints, Etsy, £4.94
Change it
If you’re a bit fickle and you like to keep your decor fresh then having a means of creating your own typography art which you can change as often as your mood is a great investment.
Light boxes have been around for a while now but have become more affordable and we’re seeing some interesting variations from the ubiquitous box shape.
The best of the high street offerings is this customisable lightbox from Next.
Longer, and supplied with more letters, than a standard light box, this one allows lots of scope for your creativity (sweary mottos).
If you fancy treating yourself though, or maybe one for your Santa list, how about this one from Rockett St George?
Yes please.
Much newer on the scene, but about to have a serious moment, are peg boards. With their clean monochrome good looks evoking retro diners and hair salons, and the scope to express yourself much more fully (long sweary mottos) who wouldn’t want one of these?
Make it
Finally, if reading this post has inspired you to create some typography art of your own, then I would urge you to give it a go. I use Canva for creating blog graphics. Even for a total novice it’s easy to use, it’s free, and actually a lot of fun.
Recently I’ve tried my hand at using my new skill set to create my own prints. Anthony Burrill can sleep easy, but I’m pretty pleased with my creations.
Will you be gifting or adding some typography art to your wish list this Christmas?
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