ARTIST STATEMENT
We’re surrounded by letters every day, but they’re easily overlooked—overshadowed by their function. Instead of using words primarily as texture or for meaning, I’m making work that explores what a letter’s form can communicate. I see the trees for the forest. I experiment with shape, slant, width, weight, contrast, and flourish. I play with legibility and crossing the line into abstraction. I’m interested in the DESIGN of things. How can letter forms influence how you interpret words? How much can you alter an A before it’s no longer an A?
ABOUT THE ARTIST
I’m an American artist and illustrator working in Chicago—born and raised in the Midwest and the daughter of an immigrant. After spending several years at design firms, I decided to start my own practice in 1998. My work is influenced by my years as a designer and my love for mid-century modern and pop art. I’m grateful to have had my work recognized and published in over 40 books and magazines, including Communication Arts, Uppercase Magazine, HOW Magazine, Graphic Design USA, and LogoLounge. I’m also a member of Crush Illustration Collective.
Creating public art is a part of my practice. Recent projects include a mural at a residency in Costa Rica, a collection of 14 murals in Ainslie Arts Plaza in Chicago, and representing Illinois in a collaborative 19th Amendment flag design, displayed at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C. and at the William J. Clinton Library and Museum in Arkansas.
I have a BFA from Ball State University. Served as Vice President of Marketing for South Shore Arts for 20 years; served as Professional Programs Director for Society of Typographic Arts; served 6 years on the Town of Highland Plan Commission; and served as Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Chair for AIGA Chicago.
© Judith Mayer