Mr Brian Kwok, Associate Professor of PolyU Design recently published his third book ‘City of Scripts – The Craftsmanship of Vernacular lettering in Hong Kong’ 《字型城市— 香港造字匠》which sets another milestone of his research team of Information Design Lab’s work on conserving various forms of visual cultures in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is a place filled with all kinds of type and lettering. They are the elements that strengthen our bond as a community, enrich our imagination towards places and construct the characters of our neighbourhood. There is a saying in Chinese: ‘Seeing one’s writing is like seeing them in person’. It can also reflect the details and cultivations of our city’s way of life.

In this regard, Brian and his team visited local craftsmen to learn about their experience and lives working with vernacular lettering. Each of their craftsmanship has its own unique features, functions and different pursuits of aesthetics. Consider taking a closer look at them – the untold stories and thoughts shall be revealed behind the characters and figures of these humble craftsmen.

Through this book, Brian wishes to provide more possibilities in understanding our city to those who are interested in lettering and type design as well as street culture.

 

The book is now available at bookstores in Hong Kong.