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RAW DATA
The original route data from the runner. These shapes come directly from the GPX file, converted from Strava into SVG. This is the starting point before any typographic correction.
RAW DATA
CORRECTION
TIGHTEN UP
REGULAR
STILL RUNNING
PRESS SPACE OR CLICK TO RUN
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CORRECTION
The route is translated into a bolder and more readable shape. The goal is not to make a perfect letter yet, but to bring the raw trace closer to a typographic form while keeping the character of the original run.
PLACEHOLDER INFO 03
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TIGHTEN UP
This version is based mostly on the original route, but with more adjustment. Around 80% of the shape comes from the run, while 20% is corrected by hand. The letter becomes clearer, but still keeps some of the strange details from the route.
DISTANCE RUN: X
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REGULAR
The closest version to a readable letterform. Around 10% comes from the original route and 90% is adjusted by hand. This weight follows a more familiar typographic structure, while still carrying small traces of the original movement.
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MEDIUM
A heavier version of the regular weight. The shape becomes more solid and graphic, while still following the same structure created from the corrected route.
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BOLD
The strongest and most graphic version of the letter. Most of the raw route has been absorbed into the type system, but the form still comes from the same original movement.
X IS AN UNUSUAL APPROACH TO TYPE DESIGN WHERE RUNNING, TRACKING AND PHYSICAL MOVEMENT BECOME PART OF THE DRAWING PROCESS. THE LETTERS ARE BASED ON ROUTES MADE BY DIFFERENT PEOPLE RUNNING GLYPH SHAPES WITHOUT SEEING THE RESULT. THE TYPEFACE TURNS EACH ROUTE INTO A LETTERFORM, CREATING AN ALPHABET SHAPED BY MOVEMENT, MISTAKES AND THE BODY.
THIS PROJECT INVESTIGATES HOW RUNNING THROUGH URBAN SPACE CAN BE USED AS A METHOD FOR GENERATING TYPOGRAPHIC FORM. WHEN A RUNNER MOVES THROUGH THE CITY, THE ROUTE BECOMES A LINE SHAPED BY MOVEMENT, MISTAKES AND THE BODY.