For this week (July 18th-21st), I took images of typefaces inspired by vintage/retro aesthetics, particularly based on the 20th century. As the context of the piece changes, the "functionality" and decoration fluctuate as well. In addition to the images posted here, I've noticed bold, modern sans serif fonts and expressive, quirky serif fonts.
1) Poster Design at the British Museum
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Photographed at the British Museum on July 19th, 2022.
This is a piece featured at the British Museum in London, UK. I was drawn to this design because of the complexity that is added to a minimal font with the oscillating movement effect. This poster's focal point is quite obviously its message.
2) Large Poster at the London Eye
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Photographed outside of the London Eye on July 20th, 2022.
This piece was captured on the sidewalk outside of the London Eye. Getting straight to the point, this design features brightly-colored statement words to entice viewers to visit the Southbank Center. This piece obviously captures more of a 1970s design with bright colors and stylized sans serif font.
3) Saloon Bar Window Sign
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Photographed near the British Museum on July 19th, 2022.
This design was captured at a Saloon Bar near the British Museum. Taking inspiration from hand-painted storefronts, this door decoration uses floral and ornamental motifs to enhance the stylized font. This design reminds me of an earlier 20th-century design.
4) Fruit Bar Logo on Bottle and Glass
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Photographed at Bricklayers Arms Pub on July 18th, 2022.
This design was featured on the glass and bottle for Sam'l Smith's Apricot Fruit Beer. Drawing upon a more decorative aesthetic of designs of the 19th-20th century, these logos feature illustrations and decorative typography included. Because most goods were being hand-crafted at the turn of the 20th century, I believe this brand uses this time period, in particular, to makert a masterfully-curated beer for its consumers.
5) London Underground Bond Street Station Sign
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Photographed at Bond Street Station on July 18th, 2022.
This staple of London features the iconic Underground logo for the Bond Street Station. The red circle represents London itself while the blue intersecting line represents the River Thames. Designed in the early 20th century, this logo was designed with functionality in mind: iconic, yet minimal enough to be easily legible.
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