Typography in relation to mapping and the city (19.02.13)

I found the topic of typography in the real world one I would like the explore in more depth. I found the focus on typographical objects of everyday life highly interesting. The use of everyday objects to explore aspects of modern society is common within my art studio practice, therefore I feel this topic relates to my other work in its subject matter. I think that a city is a great and wide source of examples of typography, and it where the importance of typography in the real world can be seen. Therefore focusing on a particular city and the typographical elements it holds would be a good topic in which to base my essay. I also found the part of the lecture based on the typography behind the road signs of Britain interesting. I had always overlooked road signs, as they are a fundamental part of everyday travel in this country, therefore exploring further into the reasons behind decisions made in relation to the colour, font etc would illuminate these everyday objects in a new way. Following the topic of road signs, the other topic which I wish to explore in further detail is typography's role in maps and street signs. I feel that focusing on London as a city and the different maps which have been created of it, both of its transport systems and streets would be a rather engaging topic. There are many different examples I could explore such as Phyllis Pearsalls A-Z of London and Harry Becks London Underground maps. I could explore not just the meanings behind their colours, fonts and layouts, but also the way in which London has prospered and advanced as a city because of them. Furthermore the reasons why the maps were initially created, and what areas of society they also advanced if any, i.e medicine. I think that focusing on London would be most intriguing as it is an industrial city which gradually expanded, and was not built in an orderly or neat fashion, therefore its maps will be more interesting. However if focusing on the typography of the city, I feel that the iconic red, black and white street signs should also be explored in terms of their effect on the city and the meanings behind their design.