Molecular Typography Laboratory

Molecular Typography Laboratory by Kobi Franco is a speculative research project that delves into experimental typography, exploring the intersection of function versus aesthetics and content versus form. This profound study operates on the premise that Latin and Hebrew letters possess a molecular structure, examining how this assumption can be applied to alphabets and languages. It is an interdisciplinary endeavor that bridges the gap between design, science, and language.

The research is a deep and comprehensive exploration of the concept of “molecular typography.” It involves a series of over 150 tests, each designed as a structured “game” where Franco defines the rules, sets the stage, and selects the participants. These tests have led to the identification of 11 key themes: foundations, language, gender, formula, weight, 3D, gravitation, generative research, color, word play, and the relationship between type and image.

The book features four illuminating essays that provide historical, cultural, and academic insights into typographic research and is accompanied by the website themtlab.com with additional, animated materials.

A laboratory of pseudo-scientific Latin and Hebrew typography!

CONTENT

• Inspiring visual representations of Latin and Hebrew letters.
• Methods and rules enabling a rhizomatic exploration of experimental typography.
• The project received the New York’s TDC awards.