Sharing stories through design: Black History
When we began thinking about a way to mark the start of Black History Month this year, it turned into a learning moment for us that we wanted to share. This was a reminder to spend time researching the history of our industry and the work of Black designers in our field, which led us to learn about Tré Seals of Vocal Type (Vocal Type Co.).
Tré is an incredible typeface artist who designs fonts inspired by historical movements and events that specifically highlight an underrepresented race, ethnicity, or gender in a non-stereotypical way.
One of the many fonts he has created is Bayard, the font we used to make this graphic. He explains on his website that this typeface is inspired by the protest signs at the 1963 March on Washington and is a tribute to Bayard Rustin (1912-1987), the unsung activist who organized the march. Bayard was a close advisor to Martin Luther King and played a role in many major civil rights demonstrations—yet it’s entirely possible you’ve never heard of him. As a Black, gay man who was often attacked for his sexuality, Bayard remained mostly behind the scenes, and his contributions were nearly erased from history.
So today, we recognize Bayard’s crucial work along with artists like Tré, who bring attention to his legacy and a valuable perspective to design.
Source: The man black history erased, CNN.com
A graphic in red, yellow, and green that reads Black History Month, designed in the font Bayard by Tré Seals of Vocal Type.
Photo of Bayard Rustin, the civil rights activist the font is named after.
A quote from Bayard Rustin that reads, “We are all one—and if we don’t know it, we will learn it the hard way.”
Photo of Tré Seals, the typeface artist who designed the font Bayard as well as other fonts inspired by historical events that highlight an underrepresented race, ethnicity, or gender.
A photo of Tré Seals drawing at his desk with a quote from him that reads, “Type could be more than just a design tool, but a tool for educating and sharing stories.”
