Structural adaptation of batik parang principles into typographic anatomy and variable font parameters
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.30998/jd.v13i4.3795Keywords:
Variable fonts, Typeface design, Batik Parang, Cultural typography, Structural adaptationAbstract
This practice-based design study investigates the structural adaptation of the Batik Parang motif into a variable typeface system. The research examines the visual syntax of Batik Parang, characterized by 45° diagonal rhythms, modular continuity, and compositional hierarchy. By using Panofsky’s iconographical analysis and Gestalt perceptual principles to translate traditional visual rules into digital glyph anatomy and OpenType parametric axes. Through an iterative prototyping workflow encompassing grid extraction, stroke modulation, and counterform management, the study developed a functional variable typeface featuring four custom and registered design axes: Motion (slnt), Hierarchy (wght), Continuity (CONT), and Contrast (opsz). Interpolation stability testing demonstrated seamless, artifact-free transitions across coordinate ranges while maintaining x-height consistency and counterform openness. A two-round expert validation with professional type designers and visual communication academics confirmed satisfactory character legibility, perceptual balance, and cultural recognizability without relying on superficial surface ornamentation. This research provides a reproducible parametric model for culturally grounded variable typography in contemporary digital environments.
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