I like Typography (ILT), the world’s favourite fonts and typography weblog/ And now you should buy fonts too
December 7, 2021
The phrase erotic derives from the Greek erōs, which springs from mythic god Eros, the mischievous illustration of carnal love. The phrase erotique is French. Should I say extra? Oui ou non?
Erotic implies arousal of senses; a sure furtive pleasure. But I make no secret of getting pleasure from Erotique, Zetafonts’s new — trés stylish — sort household.
Zetafonts claims the next: “Typography has by no means been sexier.” Possibly! Possibly not? I’m attracted by the alluring sensuality of this typeface’s evocative serifs and the assemblage of sinuous heavy and lightweight strokes in varied of its higher and lowercase letters that means the coupling of each calligraphic and cursive traits.
Far and above, for me, essentially the most stimulating points of Erotique are the exotique ribbon-like tail of the Q and the beautiful swirl of the lowercase ligatures. The caps are just like, and but don’t mimic, Bodoni. I’m impressed by the notably nuanced serifs of the C, W and the curlicues of the ethereal different A, E and X. To my eye, the lowercase Erotique Monoline, Common, Medium and Daring, notably have essentially the most character as a combo Roman and Script. I notably recognize the curved bowl of the t.
As promiscuous as Erotique seems its determined complexity, which is so transfixing, additionally has limitations. You may say Erotique is a classy gown swimsuit — not a sensible sports activities coat — that may be worn solely at elegant events.
It is going to be tough to pair Erotique with most different faces. For this reason it’s best used as a headline, masthead or emblem – one thing that basks within the highlight. As a textual content face, it impresses a singular texture on a block of textual content; nonetheless, it’s tough to not be distracted by its whimsical unconventionality.
Nonetheless, this household does reside as much as its quixotic title — it’s romantic and fanciful with a soupçon of dreamy irregularity.
Steven Heller is nothing in need of a legend within the design group. Award-winning graphic designer, creator and editor of a whole bunch of books (sure, 100s!) and one of many world’s foremost authorities on graphic design historical past; and arguably its greatest design commentator. You can too comply with Steven on the must-read The Each day Heller and skim his newest ebook, Kind Speaks.
