Challenge
The typeface market is highly saturated, making it crucial to effectively communicate the standout features of a newly released font. Typically, this is done through a type specimen that highlights all aspects of the typeface. However, while essential, these specimens are often seen as dry and technical, failing to capture the interest of many type users.

Solution
To generate excitement for Character Type’s new typeface superfamily, NewsSerif, we created the concept of a specimag—a fusion of a type magazine and a typeface specimen. Drawing inspiration from an extensive archive of typeface specimens and typography magazines, we combined the two formats into a creative and engaging space to share recent thoughts and insights on type.

Characters #02 features a photographic essay by Bettina Theuerkauf, exploring the self-destructive tendencies of modern society. The issue also dives into the history of type families and breaks down the concept of variable fonts, translating type-related “nerd knowledge” into approachable and engaging graphic design.