Figures In Type

I was surfing the web and came across this site featuring illustrations of some of the world's most influential figures.


It always intrigues me to find works of art created by those who use type both creatively and unconventionally. This site shares 28 Excellent Examples Of Typography Portraits.

Type, in these featured works, is used in different ways. For example, random letters are used to make up the famed, German typographer and designer, Erik Spiekermann.

What I found interesting, in the case of Mother Teresa, is not only the portrait itself but the way the designer manipulated the font to create a mood. The thick, heavy lines add softness and care to the weathered face of this selfless woman of God.

In another example, President Obama is illustrated with words that describe the issues and challenges the leader of our great country must face. John Lennon, Gandhi and others are beautifully portrayed as well. These illustrations are a must see.