Previously working in Google Labs and currently with Facebook, New York designer Ji Lee plays with words as he interprets them as images based on the meaning and symbols associated with those words. For instance, the word 'Superstitious' shows the triskaidekaphobic letter 'S' skipping the 13th position, deemed ominous by superstitious folk.
As viewers can see from the video, the latest project by Ji Lee -- aptly titled Word As Image -- comprises of a plethora of words cleverly depicted with relevant sound effects as accompaniment. The image version of each word resembles what designers in the creative industry call logo design.
Among the many words/images featured, 'Moon' is definitely my favorite. There's just something about it that makes it pleasing to the eyes. Overall, Word As Image by Ji Lee helps people view words from a different angle.
Literal Explanatory Typography
Ji Lee Creates Words That Explain Their Meanings Visually
Trend Themes
1. Explanatory Design - Opportunities for designers to create visual representations of language to improve user comprehension.
2. Multisensory Branding - Innovative ways to engage customers using visuals, sound effects, and symbolic meanings to enhance brand perception.
3. Language-driven Art - New avenues for artists to explore language, symbol, and meaning in visual art and graphic design.
Industry Implications
1. Graphic Design - Opportunities for designers to create logos, wordmarks, and other brand elements that incorporate explanatory design elements like those seen in Ji Lee's work.
2. Advertising - Opportunities for advertisers to incorporate explanatory design trends into their messaging, particularly in multisensory brand experiences and digital campaigns.
3. Fine Art - Opportunities for artists in the fine art world to explore new forms of language-driven art that integrate typography and design elements.