In the digital age, the art of type design has evolved into a field brimming with creativity and innovation. Independent type foundries, many of which are driven by a deep passion for the craft, have risen to prominence, offering a diverse array of unique and expressive typefaces. These small-scale studios are not just businesses but artistic ventures where creativity meets technical precision. Let’s explore five of the best modern independent type foundries, each exemplifying that typography is more than just work—it’s a passion.
1. Colophon Foundry
Type Type
Website: https://typetype.org/
Colophon Foundry has established itself as a leader in modern type design through its distinctive approach to creating fonts that stand out in both print and digital media. Founded by Anthony Sheret and Edd Harrington, Colophon’s passion for type is reflected in their bespoke custom work for clients and an extensive retail collection. Their typefaces, such as “Bespoke”, and “Reader”, balance a minimalist aesthetic with functionality, making them widely used by major publications and brands worldwide.
What sets Colophon apart is its dedication to collaboration and experimentation. The foundry frequently works with artists and designers from different disciplines, allowing them to push the boundaries of what type can achieve. Their passion for type manifests in a deep understanding of typography’s ability to transform communication, making them more than just creators of fonts but innovators in design.
2. Klim Type Foundry
Founded: 2005
Location: Wellington, New Zealand
Klim Type Foundry, created by Kris Sowersby, is widely regarded as one of the most influential independent type foundries in the world. Kris’s passion for crafting beautifully functional typefaces comes through in his dedication to detail and his extensive research into letterform design. Klim has produced a variety of typefaces like “National” and “Founders Grotesk”, both of which are renowned for their legibility and versatility.
Sowersby’s background in graphic design ensures that each of his typefaces is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional for a wide range of applications, from editorial design to corporate identity. His deep passion for type shows in the care and precision he applies to every font, ensuring that Klim Type Foundry is synonymous with high-quality craftsmanship.
3. Ohno Type Co.
Founded: 2017
Location: Los Angeles, USA
Ohno Type Co., founded by James Edmondson, is a type foundry that emphasizes playful, expressive fonts with a human touch. Edmondson’s work is a reflection of his passion for the history of typography and his belief that fonts can evoke emotion and personality. His typefaces, such as “Ohno Blazeface” and “Degular”, exhibit a bold sense of character, often drawing inspiration from vintage styles with a modern twist.
Ohno Type Co. stands out due to Edmondson’s dedication to storytelling through type. His passion for letterforms shines through his educational outreach and workshops, where he shares his love for type with others, fostering a community of type enthusiasts. His work is a testament to the idea that typography is an art form that can both communicate ideas and elicit feelings.
4. Sharp Type
Founded: 2015
Location: New York, USA
Founded by Lucas Sharp and Chantra Malee, Sharp Type has made a name for itself by creating typefaces that merge technical sophistication with timeless beauty. Their fonts are designed for both contemporary digital use and traditional print, with an emphasis on clarity and elegance. Typefaces like “Sharp Sans” and “Ogg” have become staples in modern design due to their versatility and striking visual presence.
Sharp Type’s dedication to the craft is evident in their thorough design process, where every curve, stroke, and serif is carefully considered. The founders are driven by their love for typography and their desire to create fonts that stand the test of time. Their passion goes beyond just the commercial aspect, delving into the cultural and artistic significance of type in visual communication.
5. Future Fonts
Founded: 2018
Location: Global Collective
Future Fonts is a unique, collaborative platform that allows independent designers to release their fonts in-progress. This open-ended foundry model embodies the passion behind type design by allowing the community to engage in the creative process. Designers can release early versions of their fonts, gather feedback, and make iterative updates, making typography a living, breathing art form.
Future Fonts gives upcoming designers a space to grow and improve their work, while also offering customers the chance to purchase fonts at various stages of development. This transparent approach creates a deeper connection between designers and users, fostering a community that is united by their shared love of typography.
Conclusion
These five independent type foundries exemplify that type design is much more than just work—it’s a deeply personal, passionate pursuit. From bespoke collaborations to community-driven platforms, each foundry brings something unique to the world of typography. Their dedication to their craft is evident in every letter, curve, and font family they produce, contributing to the ever-evolving landscape of modern design. Whether you’re a designer looking for the perfect typeface or someone passionate about typography, these foundries offer a wealth of inspiration.
