HHIS-241: A Secret Hist of Type & Letter

Do the homemade signs stapled to telephone poles qualify as graphic design? Do cut-and-paste ransom notes qualify as typography? Why should graphic designers study hand-painted lettering? This 6-week intensive course will challenge students to critically analyze works not typically explored in graphic design history. The course will consist of two primary components: 1) Historical analysis of vernacular typography and lettering across the globe, and 2) primary research on vernacular typography and lettering in Los Angeles. Multiple class meetings will consist of instructor-led visits to off-campus sites, including various Los Angeles neighborhoods, museums/galleries, archives, and other relevant locations. Assignments include one short midterm paper and a final research report and presentation.