A Conversation On Malayalam Typography With Space Marley

Typography brings out the best which visual design has to offer about someone’s personality or a place. It’s easy to find artists who specialize in making English typography, but the same thing can’t be said for a regional dialect. That’s what this Instagram account – Space Marley is all about. The creator, Amal Antony features Malayalam typography in an artistic way making it intriguing. Each of his pieces flaunt beauty with wit.

We were fascinated by some in particular, such as the one below which caught our attention. The artwork below translates to “memories are like caressing your liver” in Malayalam. This might sound strange but there’s a humorous element to it.

ഓർമ്മകൾ… #spacemarley #പറവ #malayalamtypo

A post shared by Spacemarley (@spacemarley) on

We also noticed that some pieces have a cryptic message, leaving viewers curious and intrigued. For example, the one below with a watch in the coffin says “Time’s up” which clearly indicates the vulnerability of life.

Time Out. #spacemarley #reupload #time #death

A post shared by Spacemarley (@spacemarley) on

Another image worth mentioning is the hand with the middle finger bowing down. This translates to “my Namaskaar to everyone” in a cheeky yet subtle manner.

All of these illustrations made us look at typography in a whole new way. We got in touch with Amal Antony, to find out what attracted him towards typography in the first place.

1)Tell us a little about yourself.

I was born and brought up in Edappally. I’m currently pursuing a three year animation and graphic design course. My college is in Muvatupuzha.

Picture courtesy: Amal Antony

2)How did SpaceMarley begin?

I am a graphic design student at Yeldo Mar Besilous college. That’s how it started. While traveling home, the ideas come to me randomly.

3)What does the name Space Marley even mean?

I’m fond of the reggae music maestro Bob Marley and that’s where the name “Marley” comes from. And the term “space” describes my liking towards looking up into space at night.

4)Why only Malayalam typography?

English is commonly seen and noticed but that’s not the case with Malayalam. I intended to start the same trend in my local language.

5)You combine photography and typography often. Where did that idea come from?

When I see a good photo I select it, or if I feel that a photo which I’ve taken can work with the typography, then I just do that. I also ask my friends for their opinions.

6)Have you tried doing typography for other businesses as well?

I’ve done it for a film’s title. Right now, I’m in the process of working on many other projects too. I can tell you more only after they’ve been completed.

7)Your work has witty quips to which Malayalees can relate to. Do you enjoy writing as well?

I do write occasionally, however, I’ve received more appreciation for my designs than my writing. So, I decided to pursue design.

8)Do you consider your work to be a social commentary or do they have a deeper purpose?

A few of my pieces do deliver social messages, but there are others which are simply meant to be visually soothing.

9)Any words of advice for a beginner typographer?

You have to explore more. Even if you are trying to get inspired from other artists, you must put your own creativity into it. I add my own style to Malayalam when it comes to typography and try to make it unique.

For students of design or to the simply curious, Space Marley’s Instagram page is definitely a space for creativity, a wry smile or a laugh. Which of his illustrations is your favourite? Do let us know in your comments below.

Featured image courtesy: Amal Antony

Written by: Samah Mariam

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