Gothic Lettering Artistry: An Interview with Noeko
Jan 28, 2024
At the July Typism Summit 2023, tattoo and lettering artist Noeko shared a super cool technique to transform bouncy script-style lettering into a captivating dark Gothic design.
After her summit presentation, we interviewed Noeko in a Q+A session and discussed the significance of experimentation, freedom, and drawing inspiration from nature when creating her mesmerising Gothic designs. During her 2023 Typism Summit presentation, “Turning any lettering style Gothic”, Noeko took us on a journey from her beginnings in creating elegant logos to uncovering her edgier side and using brush lettering as a starting point for her Gothic lettering.
Noeko suggests you start with the “bouncy” lettering using a pale grey brush pen and then work over the top of the lettering with a black fine liner pen, adding thorns and tree spikes to the end of each letterform, as shown in this screenshot from her talk. You can use this technique to add a Gothic flavour to any type of lettering.
Here are some highlights from the summit Q+A session with Noeko.
Q: You’ve transitioned from crafting playful logos to darker Gothic lettering; what sparked this shift in your artistic focus?
Noeko: As I started with bouncy script-style lettering, I felt drawn toward exploring something different and mysterious. I found inspiration in nature’s elements like rose thorns and spider webs, gradually moulding my style into Gothic designs.
Q: Your demonstration highlighted how nature-inspired elements can add a Gothic twist to lettering. How can artists draw inspiration from nature and seamlessly integrate these organic elements into their designs?
Noeko: I suggest dedicating sketchbooks to studying natural elements and internalising their shapes for incorporation into lettering designs. Starting with a light wash or preliminary sketch underneath offers room for experimentation and risk-taking.
Q: You emphasised freedom and experimentation in creating Gothic designs. How does this approach help artists develop their unique styles and break away from conventional rules?
Noeko: Gothic styles offer endless possibilities without rigid rules. Being open-minded and trying new techniques allows artists to find their voices and cultivate their style. Embracing the idea that there’s no right or wrong way encourages fun in the creative process.
Q: What advice would you offer those intimidated by venturing into new artistic territory to embrace experimentation and find joy in their art?
Noeko: Understand that there’s no strict formula for artistic expression. Embrace freedom and enjoy the process—there’s no right or wrong. This mindset allows for exploration and personal growth.
Key Talk Takeaways
Maintain an Experimental Spirit
- Noeko’s artistic evolution from playful logos to Gothic designs underscores the power of experimentation and the importance of embracing change. Her journey reflects the transformative impact of drawing inspiration from nature, leading to a unique fusion of styles.
Use Nature as Your Muse
- Noeko emphasises the role of nature as a rich source of inspiration for Gothic lettering. Integrating elements like spiderwebs and thorny features involves dedicated sketching and observation. Starting with a light foundation allows for fluidity in the creative process, enabling you to incorporate organic elements into your designs seamlessly.
Break the Rules
- Noeko advocates for artistic freedom and experimentation in Gothic design. Breaking conventional rules opens up endless possibilities for you to develop unique styles. Her advice encourages you to embrace experimentation, find joy in the process, and understand that there is no right or wrong way to artistic expression.
Quote by Noeko, graphic by Ferlix Christian CampuganWe hope Noeko’s trick to transform bouncy script-style lettering into a dark Gothic style will motivate you to try this technique soon, and you can see Noeko demonstrating another technique at the January 2024 Skills Summit.
Some parting advice from Noeko:
“Don’t overthink it and just have fun.”
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