For our 100th birthday, we've teamed up with six uber-amazing typographers and illustrators to create a unique mural at Melbourne Central. The one-of-a-kind art installation is a celebration of everything Bonds stands for in an epic vibrant and visually-knock-out display. It’s mega!
View the full wall on Instagram at @bonds100art here.
Introducing the first of our artists, Eliza Svikulis, who began her career attempting to write out the entire dictionary (for handwriting practice!) and now specialises in lettering and graphic design. Her work ranges from hand-drawn and painted lettering to digital illustration and branding, which she creates for clients. Find out more about Eliza in our Q&A with her below…
What does Bonds mean to you?
It’s the most iconic Australian brand of undergarments and wardrobe essentials.
What Bonds item can't you live without?
A light grey basic tee, it goes with everything! Oh and my old 'Sloppy Joe' hoodie, which has been much-loved for years.
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
Always handmade. Usually flat, but intricately detailed. Unintentionally feminine with a nod to period lettering styles.
What got you into typography?
My fascination began in early childhood, watching the title sequences to The Sound of Music and Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory repeatedly (although one of those might have had less to do with the lettering and something to do with the flowing melted chocolate montage). I was also obsessed with handwriting practice, and in awe of hand-painted signage and chalkboards from really early on. I've always had the most fun drawing letters but wasn't sure I could make a career out of it. So when I discovered later in my art education that there was a resurgence of all things hand-crafted, with custom typography a large part of that, I knew I had to go for it!
What was the inspiration for your Bonds design?
Since the piece is focused on celebrating Bonds' centenary, I wanted it to have some historical element. I took a look at many ornamental styles, but once I saw the florals from the BONDS100 print range, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to incorporate influences from decorated wood block alphabets from the 1800s. My floral arrangements are a mixture of four different patterns in the current range mixed in together.
When you think of Bonds, what springs to mind?
Comfort, quality, and staple items.
If you could be any font, which one would you be and why?
Something with a ridiculous amount of ligatures and ornaments. Because I have a tendency to over-embellish!
Keen to check it out? Head down to Melbourne Central and be wowed by this one-of-a-kind Bonds 100th birthday mural. You can also check out Eliza’s incredible talent via her Instagram account @eliza_svikulis.
9 years ago
