Neue Normal
What is “new” in our normal? What is normal in the new? These were commonly echoed sentiments during our attempts to try and make sense of the strange times we lived in. Through an acceptance of chaos & an embrace of abnormality, the zines seek to explore the existence of ‘peace’ during this transformative period of the world.
‘Neue Normal’ Typeface
Nothing was normal about the new normal—the typeface aimed to capture that essence as the zeitgeist of 2020. Navigating the pandemic was equal parts [1] doing things the way we’ve always done so, to [2] adapting new, unconventional ways to fit (or break) the mould of our habits & structures. The typeface was built on top of a conventional 3x3 grid [1] and the letterforms attempting to conform or disrupt its’ rules [2]. As experimental as it gets, the outcome is a suite of anomalous letterforms, harmonised only by one common theme—unexpectedness.
Peace amongst Chaos
The 2-issue zine series highlight polar approaches to peace; internal and external. Vol 01, ‘Peace Amongst Chaos’, is a collection of poetry translated into abnormal visual pieces, using expressive typography and vibrant palettes. Using excerpts from the likes of Emily Dickinson, Libai, Mary Oliver, Sylvia Plath & more, this issue attempts to depict contents of peace & quiet within a space of chaos and randomness, reflective of our attempts of sanity in an uncontrolled environment.
Miracles of the Mundane
Vol 02 ‘Miracles of the Mundane’ brings a return to reality & embracing our current situation. The content focuses on the reclamation of nature & grassroot activities around the world during Covid 19; but more than anything, the seeds of hope in a hopeless time. From stories of a farmer planting 2 million sunflowers to make people smile, to the discovery of the highest number of new turtle nests in Thailand in 20 years, and of a flock of a 100,000 flamingoes dancing in Mumbai.