Build play with a redaction theme for this year's TypeCon identity

I always think that creating the identity for a design conference is one of the most thankless commissions around – all those attendees ready, willing and able to offer informed and immediate feedback. So when we see it done well it only seems to right to give credit where it’s due, and Build did a fine job for this year’s TypeCon gathering.

Run by the Society of Typographic Aficionados (SoTA) – an organisation dedicated to the promotion, study, and support of typography and related arts – the conference has taken place annually since 1998 and was held this year in Washington DC.

Build’s redaction theme was inspired by recent revelations around US intelligence and surveillance culture, which felt particularly relevant in the city where the American Government is based. As with any identity of this kind it had to work across everything from staging, signage and stationery to T-Shirts and tote bags, and programmes to promotional materials.

SoTA board member Corey Holms said: “Locals felt it perfectly captured the essence of DC, US nationals thought it was a great combination of sloganeering and bureaucratic typography that encapsulated our capitol. And people from outside the US saw it as both an homage to this country, and a loving jab at us as well.”