I have two projects right now that call for a solid Arabic font, and am having trouble finding a solution. It may be two separate fonts or one that does it all.
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECTS
- The first project is a series of religious brochures that are text-heavy.
The logo for this project is in decorative Thuluth calligraphy. - The second is a series of Nasheed-like videos that will display Arabic text during the audio narration.
The logo for this project is in the Ruq'a script.
TYPOGRAPHIC MATCHMAKING v.s. Traditional
I don't want to create a big brouhaha here. I'm just open to either approach. My main concerns are:
- Readability
Print project needs to be easy on the eyes at small sizes.
Video project needs to be easy to read on screen. - Traditional
Both fonts need to harmonize with traditional Islamic or religious content. But it must appeal to progressive thinkers too, so going outside the constraints of old-school traditionalism is fine. - Affordability
All of the Matchmaking fonts I have seen so far don't seem to fit as they appear too modern. But I love how matchmaking includes the Latin counterpart.
TASMEEM?
I have an old copy of Tasmeem and only have the Emiri font. To me, this font, while beautiful, seems a little difficult to read at small sizes. Correct me if I'm wrong. At this point, the projects cannot justify the expense of upgrading Tasmeem and InDesign.
MULTIPLE WEIGHTS
Both projects need the ability to have multiple weights. There needs to be a medium, light, bold, etc. I would prefer to find a family that has at least four weights. If there are strong opinions against doing multiple weights with Arabic, please explain your opinion. I'm open.
And perhaps I need to get a couple different fonts…one for body copy and one for titles and headings.
SERIF/SANS SERIF
I would assume this font needs to have serifs.
So far, I have only considered:
http://www.rosettatype.com/Nassim
It seems to fit some of these constrains, but to me it appears more editorial than traditional.
Looking forward to your recommendations, wisdom, advice, and of course, bulbs and flowers.
–paul
