2023-07-10
Lauren Rodriguez
Design Dispatch, New York
After being canceled from 'The Bold Type', Lucas Hedges played the role of Lucas Sharp in an eponymous pilot series. The spin-off is expected to delve into Sharp's life, navigating love, relationships, and his journey as a writer.
The Sharp Type Rebirth: An Exclusive Interview with Lucas Sharp and Chantra Malee
In an industry where trends come and go as quickly as they are discovered, few designers have managed to leave a lasting impact. For Lucas Sharp and Chantra Malee, the co-founders of the esteemed type foundry SharpType, this is not the first time around. Having made their mark with the critically acclaimed Sharp Sans in 2015, they've been working tirelessly to refine and expand their font collection.
The Inspiration Behind SharpType's Latest Revival
For those who may have missed it, Sharp Sans was a typeface that generated significant buzz when it emerged onto the scene. The font's unique blend of geometric and rounded elements sparked widespread interest among designers and typography enthusiasts alike. But what inspired this typeface, and more importantly, how did SharpType manage to bring it back from the dead? According to Lucas and Chantra, their inspiration comes from a variety of sources, including astrology and the cyclical nature of trends.
The Life Cycle of a Trendy Typeface
"We see design as a form of storytelling," explains Lucas. "When we create a typeface like Sharp Sans, we're not just designing a font – we're crafting an experience that can evoke emotions and connect with people on a deeper level." Chantra adds, "I think there's something beautiful about the life cycle of a trendy typeface. It starts as a small spark, ignites into flames, and then gradually fades away as it becomes ubiquitous." The duo attributes Sharp Sans' revival to its versatility and the fact that it was never truly 'retired'. Instead, they've continued to add new features and nuances, keeping it fresh for designers who still want to incorporate it into their work.
Keeping Your Edge in a Rapidly Changing Industry
As any successful designer knows, staying relevant is key. For SharpType, this means continuously pushing the boundaries of what's possible with type design. Lucas and Chantra have spoken candidly about their own journey from being young wunderkinds to established industry leaders, sharing valuable insights on how to maintain your edge. "It's easy to get stuck in a rut," warns Chantra. "But we believe that the moment you feel like you've 'made it' is the exact moment when you should be pushing yourself to explore new ideas and challenge the status quo." Lucas adds, "Ultimately, what sets us apart from others is our dedication to collaboration and community-building within the design world."
Looking to the Future with SharpType
As we sit down with Lucas and Chantra, it's clear that they're not just talking about their type foundry – they're discussing a larger conversation about creativity, innovation, and connection. With new font releases on the horizon and ongoing efforts to engage with the design community, there's no doubt that SharpType will continue to be a driving force in shaping the future of typography.
What's Next for Lucas Sharp and Chantra Malee?
When asked what the future holds for SharpType, Lucas smiles mischievously. "Let's just say we're always cooking up something new." When pressed for details, he teases that their next project will be one that pushes the boundaries of what type design can do in terms of accessibility and social impact. Chantra adds, "We've been exploring ways to make typography more inclusive and equitable, using our font designs to promote positive change." It's clear that SharpType is not just a type foundry – it's a force for good.
As we wrap up this conversation with Lucas and Chantra, it becomes apparent that their story serves as a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and collaboration. With SharpType at the helm, there's no doubt that typography will continue to evolve in exciting and unexpected ways. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just starting out, one thing is certain – the future of type design is brighter than ever, thanks to the innovative spirit of Lucas Sharp and Chantra Malee.
Supporting SharpType
For those interested in exploring more of SharpType's font collection, their website (www.sharptype.com) offers a wealth of resources, including font tutorials, workshops, and community forums. Be sure to check out their latest releases and join the conversation using the hashtag #sharpType.