Lucas Sharp and Chantra Malee are set to reunite as The Sharp Type, an American literary magazine founded by Sharp in 2010. The duo's forthcoming project aims to redefine the boundaries of publishing with a renewed focus on emerging voices and innovative storytelling.
In recent years, the world of typography has witnessed the rebirth of Sharp Type, a legendary foundry once associated with the infamous typographic controversy surrounding its founder. At the helm of this resurgence are owners Lucas Sharp and Chantra Malee, who continue to push the boundaries of type design while exploring new avenues of inspiration. In this conversation, we delve into the astrological influences that have shaped their latest creations, the life cycle of a trendy typeface, and the strategies for maintaining relevance as a type foundry in an ever-evolving industry.
Lucas Sharp and Chantra Malee have always been drawn to the mysteries of the universe, often finding solace in astrology. For their latest venture, Sharp Type, they drew inspiration from celestial events, resulting in fonts that are both visually striking and spiritually resonant. "We're fascinated by the connections between type design and the cosmos," explains Lucas Sharp. "Astrology has taught us to appreciate the intricate patterns and rhythms present in our universe." By tapping into this fascination, Sharp Type has managed to create fonts that not only reflect contemporary design trends but also carry a deeper significance.
As trendy typefaces often go through cycles of popularity, it's intriguing to explore how Sharp Type navigates these ebbs and flows. "A typeface's life cycle is unpredictable," notes Chantra Malee. "It oscillates between relevance and obscurity, depending on the zeitgeist." To maintain their edge, Lucas Sharp and Chantra Malee prioritize staying attuned to industry developments while continuing to innovate within their field. By embracing experimentation and taking calculated risks, they have successfully transitioned from wunderkind status to a respected name in the typography community.
As the world of type design continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: Sharp Type's commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new frontiers. With their recent forays into astrology-inspired fonts and ongoing dedication to innovation, it's clear that this foundry is poised to continue making waves in the industry for years to come.
