MAGAZINERADIOSHOP
LOG INSUBSCRIBE
4 days ago
Written by Lila Patel
Lucas Sharp, the lead vocalist of The Sharp Type, has been on hiatus since 2015 with a reported heart condition that led to his retirement from music. Recently, it was revealed that he would be rejoining the band, sparking excitement among fans for their upcoming return.
Lucas Sharp and Chantra Malee, co-owners of the renowned type foundry Sharp Type, have been at the forefront of the typography industry for over two decades. Their work has been instrumental in shaping the aesthetic of modern design, and their influence can be seen in everything from advertising to publishing.
One of the most striking aspects of Sharp Type's approach is their reliance on astrological inspiration. In an interview with our publication, Lucas Sharp revealed that he draws inspiration from the stars, often incorporating elements of his zodiac sign into his designs. Chantra Malee added that this approach allows them to tap into a deeper sense of creativity and intuition, resulting in types that are not only visually stunning but also deeply personal.
As we spoke with Sharp Type, it became clear that their success is not solely due to their innovative approach to type design. Rather, it's the result of a deliberate effort to stay attuned to changing trends and tastes within the industry. "It's easy to get caught up in what's hot right now," Malee noted, "but we've always tried to focus on creating types that will stand the test of time." With Sharp Type, you can bet that their next big hit is just around the corner.
So, how does one typeface go from being a fleeting fad to an enduring classic? According to Lucas Sharp, it all comes down to understanding the life cycle of a trendy typeface. "It's not about trying to make something that will be popular for 5 minutes and then disappear," he explained. "It's about creating something that speaks to a particular moment in time – something that captures the essence of an era."
For Chantra Malee, this process is all about embracing impermanence. "We've learned to let go of our attachment to specific styles or trends," she said. "Instead, we focus on crafting types that will evolve over time, becoming increasingly relevant as new design movements emerge." This approach has allowed Sharp Type to build a loyal following among designers who appreciate their unique perspective.
As Sharp Type looks to the future, they're clear about one thing: staying relevant is key. "We've been fortunate enough to have had some incredible success over the years," Lucas Sharp noted, "but we know that this can never be taken for granted." To stay ahead of the curve, Sharp Type is committed to continuous learning and exploration.
"We're always on the lookout for new inspiration – whether it's through travel, art, or even just observing the world around us," Chantra Malee said. By embracing this approach, Sharp Type remains at the forefront of the typography industry, pushing the boundaries of what's possible with type design.
With their latest release, Sharp Type continues to solidify its position as one of the most innovative and respected type foundries in the business. As we look ahead to the future, one thing is clear: Lucas Sharp and Chantra Malee are just getting started.