Underware explores the question: how many dimensions can a letter truly consist of? Text consists of two-dimensional letters within a one-dimensional sequence. And while we navigate a reality of millions of parameters within a three-dimensional world, we already struggle to conceptualize a four-dimensional space. So, in how many dimensions can a letter exist?
Writing is a three-dimensional act that leaves a two-dimensional imprint where the pen meets the paper. While fully comprehending all dimensions of writing remains a challenge, Underware is excited to present some new projects that introduce additional dimensions to type. This multi-dimensional presentation also marks the first public unveiling of a new writable font family that Underware has developed over the past few years for Microsoft Office: Kermit.
Born in Wanssum, the Netherlands 1976. Studied visual communication at the art academy ABK in Maastricht and followed the post-graduate course typography and type design at the KABK Den Haag. Lives in Amsterdam since September 2001. Founding member of Underware.Underware is three men with one mission: wipe the dust from the type-design by throwing it on the street. More talking, more sharing, less secrets. In other words, Underware is a typographic design-studio publishing their own typefaces and publications. The company was founded in 1999 by Akiem Helmling, Bas Jacobs and Sami Kortemäki.
The typefaces of the pan-European type foundry Underware stand out for their unique aesthetics and technical expertise. The company was founded in 1999 by Akiem Helmling, Sami Kortemäki, and Bas Jacobs. Since then, they have not only created a modest library of retail fonts but also made custom fonts for a wide range of international clients. Meanwhile they try to expand the notion of type. They question, experiment, code, and diligently produce new tools on the furthest edge of type design technology. With offices in Den Haag, Helsinki, and Amsterdam, the team is happy to speak in English, Dutch, German, Finnish, some local dialects, and a bit of Spanish.
Sami Kortemaki