Typographer

Michael Cina

Since the start of his career, Michael Cina has put out an incredible amount of work, from typography to illustration to design, and beyond. Even so, when I spoke with him for this interview, he remarked on feeling like his career is starting over again. The evolution of Michael’s career is certainly a result of talent, but as you read his story, keep in mind that talent alone doesn’t make one great. Michael reminds us that, no matter what season your career is in—whether a recent graduate or an experienced veteran—it’s still important to work hard and stay humble. —Tina

Erik Marinovich

This guy is a prolific letterer and between his freelance work and personal projects for Friends of Type—a site he cofounded with friend Aaron Carámbula—there’s no doubt that Erik has skills. While he initially studied design, Erik briefly thought he would take over his dad’s masonry business—thankfully, he didn’t. After a gallery internship, Erik was inspired to pursue what he truly wanted to do. Read on for the rest of his story, including how Friends of Type came to be, what he’s working on now, what lies ahead, and why Erik’s open to reinvention at any stage of the game. —Tina

Jacqui Oakley

We’re easily fans of Jacqui’s illustration and hand lettering work. Her style is unmistakable, boasting wonderful textures and a stunning use of color, and she’s really good at what she does—after all, she’s been illustrating for over ten years! As a child, Jacqui travelled with her family and spent her formative years in the Middle East. It was fun to hear stories about her early adventures, the culture shift she experienced when her family moved from Bahrain to Canada, and why she chose illustration. Now, as a teacher and working illustrator, Jacqui has the opportunity to give back by sharing knowledge and experience with her students—just as she has with us. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, Jacqui! —Tina

Darren Booth

We’re excited to kick off year two of TGD with the talented illustrator and letterer, Darren Booth! Eleven years ago, Darren was a recent college grad who had just spent his summer working and saving to make his first promo. A lot has happened in his life and career since then. Read on about Darren’s journey into the world of illustration, his brief stint as a top secret operative—well, maybe we’re exagerrating a little—what he’s learned from his mentors and his wife, and why the legacy he leaves may have little to do with his art. —Tina

Jess & Russ Part One

Jessica and Russ are tying the knot on August 24,2012 and we thought it would be fun to celebrate by having them on TGD—together! Their interview was so full of awesomeness that we’ll be splitting it into two parts—the first half being published today and the second half to be published on Thursday. Without further ado, we bring you the first part of our conversation with this incredible couple. —Tina

Karl Kwasny

With wildly imaginative illustrations, hand-drawn type, and attention to detail, Karl’s work is stunning. It was a privilege to be invited into his world and learn more about his story, like the fact that he almost didn’t pursue illustration. Read on for the rest of Karl’s story and learn about what satisfies him most creatively, how he’s adjusting to a big move from Australia to New York, his first picture-book, and why he believes that anything is possible. —Tina

Dana Tanamachi

Dana’s graceful chalk lettering installations exude a beautiful, hand-made feel and summon a sense of nostalgia for us. We wanted to know more about her and were pleased when she agreed to talk with. Dana is thoughtful, humble, full of insight, and willingly transparent. Read on to learn more about Dana’s move from Texas to Brooklyn, her unexpected transition from designer to full-time chalk letterer, how her life has been enriched by finding a community she calls home, and why she hopes to leave a legacy of “faithfulness over success.” —Tina