An ambigram is a calligraphic design that can be read from multiple directions. The goal of this project was to create a visually appealing ambigram by hand.
First, I had to determine if creating an ambigram with my name was possible. My first name is unique because it consists of two words with a space between the “y” and “L,” which made the process more challenging. One of the biggest difficulties was adjusting the proportions of the “y” so that it could be recognized as an “n” when read backward, as it naturally resembles an “h” when inverted. After several sketches and revisions, I was able to arrive at a final design. I scanned my final sketch into the computer and traced it using the pen tool in Adobe Illustrator to create a polished digital version.
The final ambigram design features playful, flowing lines that create a balanced and visually engaging composition. Sketching on graph paper was essential for refining the curves of each letter and maintaining consistent proportions. Exploring multiple sketches with different typographic styles was a key part of the creative process, allowing me to experiment and evaluate various options. Often, one particular sketch emerges as the strongest solution, standing out from the rest and providing the perfect resolution to the design challenge.