The world of graphic design is often a fascinating blend of art and function, and the latest project from Kwazi Design is a testament to that. Based in the bustling cities of New Delhi and Kolkata, this design studio has embarked on a unique journey, capturing the essence of Kolkata through the lens of typography. The result? A captivating visual archive titled 'Type Around Town', which showcases the city's love affair with letterforms. This project marks a departure from Kwazi Design's usual branding and visual design work, but it's a natural evolution driven by their passion for typography and a deep connection to their hometown.
Arshdeep Singh, the founder and creative director, shares a personal story that ties into this project. Growing up in Kolkata, Arshdeep was always intrigued by the city's diverse cultural influences, both regional and colonial. However, it was during the pandemic that he began to see the city in a new light. As he wandered the streets, he noticed the subtle yet powerful role that typography played in Kolkata's visual identity. From marble plaques to hand-painted boards, letterforms were everywhere, quietly contributing to the city's aesthetic. This realization sparked a desire to document and preserve these often-overlooked details.
The 'Type Around Town' archive is a testament to this pursuit of preservation. Kwazi Design has meticulously built a visual narrative around Kolkata's typography, uncovering stories of craft, context, and the passage of time. By doing so, they've managed to reframe the city's aesthetic, moving beyond its past remnants to forms that still hold relevance in the present. This project is a powerful reminder that design is not just about aesthetics; it's about understanding and appreciating the stories and contexts that surround us.
What makes this project even more intriguing is Kwazi Design's approach to observation. They emphasize the importance of paying attention to the quieter, often overlooked details, such as the stories told through street signs. By translating these observations into their design work, they encourage us to do the same. The 'Type Around Town' project is not just a visual archive; it's an invitation to explore and appreciate the hyper-local and cultural context behind these letterforms.
One of the most commendable aspects of this project is Kwazi Design's effort to make their love for typography accessible. In a country like India, where such archival projects are uncommon, they've created merchandise to accompany the book. This move is designed to encourage people to appreciate the little things that surround them, just as Arshdeep did for his city. For him, the project is deeply personal, serving as an homage to the city that shaped him.
In conclusion, 'Type Around Town' is a testament to the power of observation and the importance of preserving local heritage. It invites us to see the world through a new lens, where typography becomes a gateway to understanding and appreciating the stories and contexts that shape our cities. Kwazi Design's work is a reminder that design is not just about aesthetics; it's about the stories we tell and the connections we foster.
