Bible Initial Caps A-Z

BFA Art Show

My BFA solo exhibition when graduating at Murray State University was called “Bible Initial Caps: A-Z,” which was a complete alphabet collection of handmade initial caps with imagery of a biblical theme.

Initial caps are an intriguing way to combine both type design and illustration. Letterforms in the initial cap series were handlettered. Each letter had a theme that’s first letter of the word corresponds to the letter it is associated with (A-Adam, B-Balaam, etc.). The letters were an extension from a written body of text about the theme to further visually explain some major elements from the story. The letterforms I designed were classical and bold slab serifs. The illustrations on each letter were created by reading scripture and creating symbols, motifs, and imagery described to create the initial caps. All 26 letters implemented the stroke weight and graphic style consistently throughout.

Letters are a widely understood and recognized form, but still provide opportunity to create unique letterforms with character to tell and enhance a story.