Kalamansa
2024
Type design * End-to-end project * Visual Identity
A Variable font studio that enables designers to create dynamically and expressively in Hebrew.
Type design often demands a compromise between beauty and usability, expression and functionality. Kalamansa ("כלמנסע", the middle letter sequence in the Hebrew alphabet) was born from the desire to make the trade-off between form and function unnecessary. The studio creates variable Hebrew fonts that are both expressive and practical, tailored for designers who seek creative flexibility without sacrificing legibility. Kalamansa offers a dynamic space between weight extremes and strives to contribute to Hebrew visual culture.
The visual identity of the studio revolves around the unique use of the qamats (a Hebrew niqqud), not just as a diacritical mark, but also as a dynamic graphic element. Its variations function as both icons and design components, forming an integral part of the visual language. Placing the qamats in the middle of the letter is an unexpected move, Shifting it from its natural position as a way to emphasize boldness and the 'middle way' as a core value.
Merlotta was the first typeface I developed during the project, and my first experience designing a Hebrew font. It began as an experiment of adapting a Latin typeface into Hebrew. I was inspired by Didot, a font I admired for its elegance and simplicity. I drew from its sharp contrast between vertical and horizontal strokes, its distinct geometry, and its blend of sharp angles with soft, rounded curves.
The name “Tizmoret” (”תזמורת”, Hebrew: "Orchestra") was influenced by the shape of the flag on the letter Lamed, which reminded me of a metronome’s arm. This modern slab serif typeface features organic forms and chiseled inner corners. Its six weights, varying from light to extra-bold, are named after musical terms that describe volume and intensity, such as pianissimo (very soft) for the lightest and fortissimo (very strong) for the boldest.
Mystica is a calligraphic serif typeface, characterized by Jewish calligraphy with a dramatic flair. It is made up of expressive, flowing strokes and intricate details derived from historical scripts. This typeface carries a strong, theatrical presence and comes in a bold weight and italic bold weight, designed to convey a sense of mysticism and grandeur.
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