Hello was a grad school project for a class called Unconventional Typography and students were asked  to reflect on something personal as a launching pad for a typographic project. The personal memory I chose to explore was memory I have of my uncle, John Turri, who, despite being a severe alcoholic that would frequently drive around with an open can of beer (trading sips with his dog), had the kindest, gentlest heart anyone could imagine. What I remember most fondly, however, is that my uncle would wave at everyone he saw passing by in a car or walking by on the street. He would do this regardless of whether or not people were paying attention to wave back or not, and oftentimes people were paying attention and simply ignored him.

When I reflect on this memory I’m reminded of the kind-hearted, sensitive, caring, and loving person that I knew my uncle to be, and his demonstration of unabashed and faithful friendliness set an example for me on how to be a good neighbor (minus the drinking and driving of course!).

Watch the animation below and download the font here: Hello.otf