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NODOA is a decorative Latin typeface inspired by traditional Chinese knotting craftsmanship. Designed by Eikou Zhang, it is based on the Cloverleaf knot as the core unit, presented in both handmade physical and 2D digital formats. Through contemporary graphic design practice, the typeface offers a fresh perspective on appreciating and understanding traditional handcraft.
The project originated from an exploration of Chinese knotting, combining hands-on practice with research into its dissemination and reinterpretation in contemporary contexts. These discussions often remain tied to fields like fashion or installation art. As a practitioner in graphic design, Zhang wanted to contribute ideas rooted in this discipline. By studying knotting techniques, he identified the cloverleaf knot—one of the fundamental knots in Chinese knotting—as a highly flexible and structurally adaptable unit, aligning naturally with the logic of modular type design. Using the Latin alphabet as a foundation establishes an accessible bridge of understanding for global audiences.
