Linda Hintz Other Ways is a project that investigates alternative methods for designing letterforms using algorithmic and AI-driven tools. The project aims to produce results that are difficult or nearly impossible to achieve with standard industry techniques while preserving control over type design decisions. The process, guided by the tools used, led to two distinct approaches so far: skeleton and area.
The skeleton-based approach uses code to define letterforms. By drawing skeleton letter shapes and making use of a JavaScript library for vector-based drawing, the final letterforms take shape through computational instructions. This method also opens the door to further interactive usage.
The area-based approach, on the other hand, begins with a rough, digital hand sketch as a foundation. It is drawn with a specific material in mind and serves as a base for AI-driven tools to add materiality to the design. While the letters are static for now, imagining movement is quite easy.
Both approaches demand thoughtful decision-making in type design as any other process would. However, they represent a shift in focus. Rather than meticulously defining outer and inner forms, the emphasis is on directing broader parameters, such as proportions, slant, weight, width, or specific letter parts like stems, bowls, and stroke endings. Both skeleton and area act as frameworks, encouraging exploration and experimentation within the design process.
The project was supported by the Danish Arts Foundation.