ARISHEM

Typeface

Project Type

Typography
Book Design
Motion Graphic

Client

SJSU Design Department

Year

2023-25

Jack Kirby was the most influential comic book artist of the Silver Age. He always found visually dynamic ways of putting his imaginative mind onto paper. The design of his celestial characters are stand out examples of Kirby’s fantastical renderings of otherworldly technology. The organic yet rigid form found on one of the character’s thumb is the main inspiration of the Arishem typeface.

Each letterform is constructed on a square grid, with the dimensions of each space being assigned a different number of boxes. This assortment of sizes creates a system in which the unique rendering of technological elements seen in Kirby’s work can be expressed. Uppercase letterforms are narrow and skinny above the x-height while being wide and tall below it.

Full Arishem Typeface set

Arishem type specimen book cover

Module and grid for letterforms

2 page spread from type specimen book

The look of this typeface was specifically inspired by the small shapes and details that make up the intricate illustrations that Kirby is known for. In turn, the letterforms can be chained together in order to create patterns and textures mimicking the same visuals that inspired their design.