In A Blur (I)

2024
Typography Poster Series
The city’s movement—the rhythm of life.
SkillsResearch
Conceptualization
Vector Illustration
Poster Design
Typography
ToolsFigma
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
"In a Blur (I)" is a collection of four typographic posters that capture the unique urban essence of Ho Chi Minh City through the lens of Bình Thạnh District—seen both from the perspectives of residents and outside observers. The district’s ever-shifting, out-of-focus motion, contrasted with moments of quiet clarity, served as the core inspiration for the design concept.
Conceptual Process
Bình Thạnh is a district that captures both the calm and chaos of Ho Chi Minh City. Nestled just north of the center, it blends vibrant student life, busy markets, and traditional charm with rapid urban development. Its streets—both wide and winding—are always in motion, reflecting a city constantly under construction.

Though I didn’t grow up here, Bình Thạnh has become deeply personal to me. My memories—school days, quiet moments, everyday encounters—are rooted in this place. Inspired by Italo Calvino’s Invisible Cities, I began to see the district not just as a location, but as a collection of emotional fragments—moments that shift and blur, yet leave a clear impression.

In this project, I wanted to express the essence of Bình Thạnh not through landmarks, but through feeling. The name itself carries dual meanings: "Bình" (peaceful) and "Thạnh" (prosperous), echoing the contrast between serenity and movement. My goal was to translate that duality into visual language—capturing slices of life that feel familiar, fluid, and real.
A series of posters that evoke feelings and emotions about memories and experiences in Bình Thạnh District.

Emphasizing the contrast between strong, dynamic and calm, gentle. Bringing moments of relaxation and tranquility like when experiencing Bình Thạnh District.
Creative Process
VISUAL CONCEPT
My moodboard reflects the diversity of the city, though it still feels a bit complex. That’s why I always aim to keep the posters light—leaving space for the viewer to breathe and reflect.


TYPE CHOICE
To express contrast while maintaining simplicity and warmth, I chose Phudu as the sans-serif typeface for its bold, youthful energy, and Bomboniere as the serif for its soft, rounded forms that evoke intimacy and approachability.

Serene
Inspired by the gentle flow of water and a sense of inner stillness, this design centers on clarity. What lies at the center appears sharp and focused, while the edges gradually blur—mirroring the calm yet fluid nature of "Bình."

Intersection
Captures the dynamic tension of Bình Thạnh’s busy intersections.

Intertwined
Highlights the connections between people through brief, familiar conversations.
Prosperous
Embodies the growth, innovation, and hopeful spirit of Bình Thạnh District—reflecting the meaning of the word “Thạnh.”