Human×Nature

Team: Solo Duration: 8 Weeks Tools: Processing, Illustrator, AfterEffects





















Project Overview

Human×Nature is an international conference focused on climate change adaptation, hosted by Azure in Toronto, Canada. Originally coined Human/Nature, the “/” was swapped for an '×' to symbolize the dynamic interplay between humanity and the natural world. By adopting '×' as a variable, this connection is emphasized as fluid and subject to evolution.This choice is informed by the modular structure of the custom typeface I developed, allowing for interchangeable components that reflect fluidity and adaptability. Thus, '×' serves as a visual metaphor for the ever-changing relationship between humans and nature, underscoring the importance of flexibility and receptiveness in nurturing this crucial bond.

Generative Tool Creation (P5 & Processing)


My focal point during this project revolved around developing a generative tool that crafts an adaptable typeface composed of modular elements. The core motion of the typeface, characterized by a rhythmic expansion and contraction akin to breathing, remained constant throughout. However, the beauty lay in the customizable nature of the modules, ensuring the adaptability of the Human×Nature brand over time.
This deliberate balance between autonomy and structured limitations empowers the Azure team to seamlessly adjust the brand in accordance with each year's thematic focus. The generative tool I coded myself using Processing, offers users the ability to manipulate the shape, size, and even integrate images as modules within the typeface. Once the desired design is achieved, users can effortlessly export both static and kinetic letterforms for integration into branding materials, ensuring a harmonious blend of dynamic excitement and brand consistency.

Human×Nature 2024 Approach


Human×Nature 2024 is thematically structured into three distinct themes: "making, building, and living." In alignment with the progressive complexity of the conference themes, the typeface evolves accordingly. “Making” features fewer, larger modules, while “Living” incorporates a multitude of smaller modules. This deliberate design choice ensures that the essence of the theme is intricately woven into the identity system.

“Making“ epitomizes simplicity and rawness, reminiscent of a quick pencil stroke or line. The module for “Making” became a slender rectangle. “Building”, on the other hand, evoked images of blocks and construction, leading to the adoption of a square module. “Living“, being intricately tied to human interaction and connection, brought to mind the symbolism of circles often used to represent individuals in architectural language, so a circle became its module.




A wide range of of tools and mediums were used to achieve this project, but it was mainly a mix of coding and design software. Below is a rough chronological outline that details the twists and turns taken throughout.

Research and creating a logo were the principle steps of this project, but moving into P5 opened new possibilities. I switched from P5 to Processing to export with greater ease, and built the identity to support the custom typeface that was made.