ʻŌpua typeface collection
display · 2024
The ʻŌpua Typeface Collection is a design system rooted in ʻāina (land), developed around the concept of Hawaiʻi Futurism and containing three distinct sub-families connected to the natural geography and cultural spirit of Hawaiʻi. ʻŌpua Mauka features sharp, angular letterforms inspired by the jagged mountains of the Hawaiian islands. ʻŌpua Makai flows with wavy, curved forms reflecting the coastal regions and vast oceans. ʻŌpua Ko'olau presents a sloped, non-connecting script design inspired by the cool tradewinds of the windward side. All sub-families were intentionally designed first for ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language), prioritizing the ʻokina, kahakō, and common Hawaiian letter combinations, allowing the typefaces to particularly shine when typesetting Hawaiian words and phrases. The collection expands CJ Dunn's design practice beyond his graphic design roots to honor Hawaiian cultural identity and language preservation.