MAGAZINERADIOSHOP
LOG INSUBSCRIBE
2025-01-17
Written by Lauren Rodriguez
In jazz, improvisation and collaboration are crucial elements that create a unique sound with each performance. Similarly, Bastarda's music incorporates a sense of spontaneity and communal energy, blurring traditional genre boundaries.
Bastarda’s type practice feels akin to the collaborative nature of jazz. Made up of a team of designers in Bogotá, Colombia, Bastarda finds inspiration in music and its city.. With typefaces named after genres like Jazz and Salsa, you might already get the impression that Bastarda draws heavily from music. But the melodic comparisons don’t stop there for the design studio.
As we delve into the world of Bastarda's typography, it becomes clear that their approach is not just about mimicking musical notes, but rather, it's about capturing the essence and energy of the city they call home. Bogotá, Colombia's vibrant capital, is a city that seamlessly blends traditional and modern elements, much like the diverse sounds of jazz music. Bastarda's designers have taken inspiration from this eclectic mix to create typefaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also reflective of the city's cultural identity.
Bastarda's designers are not just limited to the genres they've named their typefaces after; they're also influenced by the rhythms and melodies of Bogotá's streets. From the sound of salsa guitars to the hum of Latin American folk music, every note and beat seems to find its way into Bastarda's designs. This is evident in their most recent release, Salsa, a typeface that embodies the lively spirit of Colombia's national dance. With its playful, dynamic shapes, Salsa is the perfect representation of Bogotá's vibrant cultural scene.
However, Bastarda's design process doesn't stop at just incorporating musical influences; they also prioritize collaboration and teamwork. Their studio, much like a jazz ensemble, consists of individual designers who come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. This collaborative approach allows them to tap into each other's creative energies, resulting in unique and innovative designs that might not have been possible alone.
One of Bastarda's most notable releases is Jazz, a typeface that captures the very essence of improvisational music. Jazz is characterized by its fluid, curved shapes, reminiscent of a saxophonist's smooth solos. This design is perfect for headlines and titles, where a sense of dynamism and spontaneity is required. By tapping into the musical concept of jazz, Bastarda has created a typeface that not only conveys meaning but also evokes emotion.
Bastarda's commitment to collaboration extends beyond their studio walls; they're also deeply invested in the community surrounding their work. They regularly engage with fellow designers, artists, and musicians to explore new ideas and inspiration. This inclusive approach allows Bastarda to stay connected to the city's creative heartbeat, ensuring that their designs remain true to Bogotá's vibrant cultural landscape.
As we look at Bastarda's impressive portfolio, it becomes clear that their collaborative approach has not only resulted in innovative designs but also a lasting legacy. Their typefaces have become synonymous with Colombian culture, serving as a symbol of the city's rich musical heritage. By embracing jazz and salsa as sources of inspiration, Bastarda has managed to transcend the boundaries between music, design, and culture.
In a world where individualism often takes center stage, Bastarda's emphasis on collaboration serves as a refreshing reminder that together, we can achieve something truly remarkable. As we continue to explore the world of typography, it's essential to recognize the role that collaboration plays in shaping the designs we see today. By studying Bastarda's approach, designers and typographers alike can learn valuable lessons about how to work together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
Bastarda's collaborative approach to design is a testament to the power of teamwork and creativity. By drawing inspiration from music and the city of Bogotá, they've created typefaces that not only reflect the cultural identity of Colombia but also evoke emotion and energy. As we continue to explore the world of typography, Bastarda serves as a shining example of how collaboration can lead to innovative designs that make a lasting impact on our collective understanding of design.