tekstiti

Tekstiti is a term used to describe a style of typographic art and narrative design that treats text as a central visual element. In tekstiti, typography, spacing, color, and composition are used to convey meaning as much as the words themselves. The approach is commonly found in digital art, posters, and experimental poetry.

Origin and name: The word tekstiti combines "text" with a suffix suggesting a movement or practice. It emerged in online design circles in the 2010s as designers explored text-driven visuals beyond conventional typography.

Techniques: Practitioners manipulate line length, kerning, grid alignment, and typographic hierarchy to create rhythms. They may embed short paragraphs within decorative frames, use fragmented lines to suggest imagery, or pair text with evocative textures and shapes. Color schemas are typically restrained to emphasize legibility and composition.

Applications and examples: Works often appear in zines, web graphics, and gallery installations. Notable examples include Fragment 01 and Grid Song.

Reception: Tekstiti is described as a niche movement bridging graphic design and visual poetry. Critics note its potential to expand how readers interpret text by foregrounding form alongside content, while some view it as challenging readability.

See also: Visual poetry, Experimental typography, Graphic design, Typography.