Untamed Alphabets

Computer-Generated Kinetic Alphabets 

This animated typography explores dynamic evolution of letterforms over time. Through a seamless transition from one image to another, achieved by subtle, incremental changes, it gives rise to fresh and captivating aesthetics. Each set of alphabets is programmed to exhibit subtle movement, leaving trails and undergoing shifts in color. Over extended duration, the letterforms gradually shed their legibility, transforming into pure, abstract images.  

















Manipulated Typography
Intrigues Me

Typographic Explorations in Digital and Non-Digital Methodologies



This project is a case study in the manipulation of typography through the use of a digital camera and a non-digital printer — Vivitar Instant Slide Printer.  Through the folding, reflection, and crumpling of typographic characters, intriguing and dimensional shapes emerge. These visual forms create unexpected shapes and have depth, and evoke emotions even before the text is read, highlighting the influence of letter shapes on our perception. The primary objective of this study was to generate an aesthetic appeal by exploring expression in three-dimensional space. In line with the words of Gerstner, who states, “the means to create expression is not to be found in spoken language, but rather in all objective possibilities of typographic form”.


Non-Digital Printing Methodology





Digital + Non Digital







Language Confusion

Exploration, Integration and Displacement of Language Boundaries


This experimental typography project creatively repurposes Korean characters,  Hangul, making them intelligible as English words. It resonates with my multifaceted experience as an artist, designer, and educator, navigating the intersection of diverse domains. 

Having lived in both Korea and America, I’ve gained profound insights into the nuanced dynamics between art and design, visual and emotional culture. I’ve come to understand that I inherently inhabit the realms of both insider and outsider, straddling two distinct cultures and occasionally finding myself in the space between. I acknowledge that the work may appear visually awkward, yet at the same time, that is where I see the beauty of embracing a plural and multifaceted identity.


Filed under  Typography, Prints








There Is Something Between The Two 

Exploration of my identity in between cultures by defining negative spaces 

This project investigates the complex dynamics of idenity, situated between two countries, exploring the concept of being both plural and partial in one’s identity. Inspired by Homi Bhabha’s book,  The Location of Culture, which states “ ...these in-between spaces provide the terrain for elaborating on strategies of self that initiate new signs of identity, and innovative sites of collaboration, and contestation, in the act of defining the idea of society itself”. As a Korean living and working in the United States, I often find myself navigating the intersection of these two cultures, sometimes feeling like I am neither here nor there. In this project, I explored these undefined spaces by shedding light on the often-overlooked negative spaces, revealing hidden dimensions of our identities and experiences. 




Filed under  Experimental, Typography, Prints









I am not stupid. I am a Korean.

A Poster of a Text-Battle Between My Professor and I

This poster reflects my personal journey when I arrived in the United States for graduate school. It serves as an invitation to viewers, encouraging them to contemplate the challenges immigrants face with language and to empathize with our experiences.

In each exhibition, the poster has elicited intimate responses from the audience. Many have shared that it enabled them to step into my shoes and gain a deeper understanding of not just me but also other immigrants. Fellow immigrants have expressed their appreciation for the work, and these heartfelt responses exemplify the power of persuasive graphic design. I am profoundly grateful for the connections forged through this work, transcending cultural boundaries and fostering empathy.




Filed under  Typography, Prints




    
ㄱ ㅣ ㅁ ㅣ ㅎ ㅕ    kim.mihyun@icloud.com    instagram: mihyun___kim
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