Typographical Concepts

Preeti Ayyangar’s Typographical Concepts is not just a Type class. You can glean that much from reading the class objective: To combine personal experiences, background, culture, environment, historical references with intelligent resources, an optimistic outlook and a design aesthetic to create an innovative product that complies with economic, social, and ecological sustainability. Whew!

Spring quarter’s student group ranged from fourth- to seventh-quarter designers, a mix that Preeti enjoyed, describing the class sessions thusly: “The energy and enthusiasm were overwhelming. There were debates; there was passion, great respect, and brilliant feedback. Indeed, she called them “one of the most amazing groups” she’s ever worked with.

When asked how they felt about the course, students returned the accolades. One claimed that all of his senses were stimulated and that there was enough leftover stimulation for him to “invent a few more senses.” Another added that the class discussions were revitalizing to his “earth kid” spirit.

Yet another offered that this was his favorite class so far and elaborated, “What was so compelling about the class was not just the assignments but how, without fail, every morning would turn into a heated discussion on society, design, history, culture, or whatever seemed relevant at the time. Magazines and books were brought, discussed, and shared. Every Wednesday morning I woke up excited, borderline riled up.”

Final products included chairs, a park bench, a toilet paper series, a map on Modernisms & Sustainability, and a recycled bookshelf. But more important than the deliverables is the renewed consciousness that they say will carry over into all of their projects and their approach to design from now on.