Competition Graduates Graphic Design Letterpress Printmaking Typography

Gradspotters Prospects | Sam Harper

posted by Robyn Pitts October 18, 2023

Gradspotters is a brand new platform dedicated to supporting the work of recent graduates in the fields of print and design. Applications are currently open to graduates all over the world who are ready to make their mark and establish their presence in the industry. This is more than a competition, it is a stepping stone towards being a part of a thriving, supportive community of like-minded creatives and industry professionals.

Each submission we receive at Gradspotters represents the bold ambition, dedication, and creativity of emerging artists. Below, we check out the work and submission of one our incredible applicants so far, Sam Harper, a recent graduate in Graphic Design who focuses on type design, print, and identity.

One of Sam’s final projects at Kingston University was to create a typeface for the semi-professional football club, North Leigh. His typeface, North Leigh Serif, has a geometric style similar to Blackletter. The serif typeface has a low contrast, thus works well for large display standards, as well as a small legible purpose. Sam then created a series of letterpress printed posters using the font which displayed the letter ‘V’ on A3 paper. Using Alan Kitching’s letterpress printing techniques, he used a mixture of yellow, black, and white to achieve a similar visual and colours that resemble North Leigh.

As part of the project, Sam also created The North Leigh Type Specimen Book, which is bound by a singular football boot lace and holds 60 individual sheets of the typeface on different paper and materials.

Forge your future in the print industry and apply now to start your extraordinary journey with us!