Type in action

London-based type foundry Sociotype is putting its type to the test in Sociotype Journal, its first publishing venture. The premise for the magazine is to expand upon a theme taken from a specific type family and explore how well it communicates; a type specimen in action.

The first edition, designed by Alicia Mundy and typeset in Gestura, includes writings and visual essays on ‘Gesture’ – from its power and political influence, to sign language, poetry and secret codes of illuminati. Also included within the journal is a (more traditional) 28-page technical type specimen, designed by Joe Leadbeater.

Issue number two, launched in November 2022 at magCulture, is titled ‘Makeshift’, and self-described as ‘an investigation of old things made new and new things made weird; a celebration of ingenuity on the hoof and ad hoc creativity under extraordinary circumstances.’ Celebrating the art of improvisation, this exuberant edition is entirely typeset in Sociotype’s Rework type families. Like the first edition, it was produced at Identity Print and Finishers in Kent, southeast England.

When asked how he approached the initial research process for ‘Makeshift’, creative director Nic Carter replied: ‘The starting point was Michael Wolf’s images of the strange and wonderful things he encountered in Hong Kong’s back alleys, particularly the Frankenstein-like chairs, shrines and shelters rigged up by restaurant workers for their smoking breaks.’

Both editions are shipped in an exclusive custom mailer, which includes a foiled and embossed postcard, along with a bookmark.