Ayabambi

This project centred around creating a typographical visual interpretation of an i-D article about AyaBambi, a Japanese dancing duo known for their hypnotic, erotic, and robotic style. The aim was to transform the written narrative into a dynamic and immersive design experience.

Overview

Two dancers in black outfits performing synchronized movements in a minimalist setting.
Two dancers in black outfits performing in a grayscale setting, one in the foreground and another behind, arms raised.
Two models wearing red outfits and matching hats sitting in front of sewing machines in a factory setting.
Two women with short hair embracing in a black and white photo, looking upwards with eyes closed. The image has a dramatic, artistic style.
Black and white GIF of a person with a bob haircut, wearing a sleeveless outfit, raising a hand to their face, appearing in motion.

AyaBambi's distinct style of dance, often likened to otherworldly androids in motion, presented a unique challenge in translating their essence into typographic form. The dynamic energy of their performances—sharp, synchronised, and sexy—became the foundation of the design. I used exaggerated curves, jagged lines, and bold contrasts to create a visual language that echoed the duo's electrifying movements, while still conveying the warmth and personality that defines them.

The Concept

Black notebook on pink background with 'A Force to Be Reckoned With' on cover.
Open magazine with black pages and red letters spelling "erotic," placed on a pink background.
Open book on a purple surface, showing a black page with the word 'HYPNOTIC' in white letters and red concentric circles.
Open book displaying large, bold text "ROBOTIC" on a black page, placed on a vibrant magenta background.

With the booklet printed on glossy paper, I used loud and dynamic black, red, and white typography that not only illustrated the story but also embodied the powerful movements of Aya and Bambi. The shapes and forms within the typography were designed to mirror the duo's fluid and fierce choreography, giving the readers a sensory experience that transcended the written word. In a direct visual representation of how Aya and Bambi perfectly mirror each other in their dance, the booklet itself mirrors text across its glossy pages. This mirrored approach emphasises the synchronicity of the duo’s movements, with each page reflecting the harmony and balance they share in their performance. The typography wasn’t just a vehicle for the text; it was an active participant in telling the story. By using a combination of bold and curvaceous fonts, I created kinetic compositions that felt as if the type was dancing off the page. Black and red were used to reflect the intensity and passion of their performance, while white was employed to create balance and give breathing room to the overall design. The typography wasn’t static; it echoed AyaBambi’s sharp movements and distinct aesthetic.

Typography & Design Execution

Close-up of text reflected on a shiny surface, part of the words "IN-SYNC" and "POWERFUL AND IMPOSSIBLY" are visible.
Open magazine on pink background with white text on a black page. Text describes the inspiration and movement in dance, mentioning young girls and androids voguing.
Open magazine on a pink background showing large, bold text reading "mannequin-like and sexy."
Open black book with white text on left page and "AYRUMURI" in red on right page, against a pink background.
Open magazine on a pink surface with black pages and diagonal white and red text.
Black and red cover with diagonal text design
Open magazine with black pages displaying red angled text on a pink background.
Open magazine on a magenta background with text on black pages; red text on left page, grey text on right page.
Open book on pink surface with black pages; left page contains text and right page has red wavy lines.
Open book on pink background with text on right page in white and red, discussing future projects involving fashion, dance, and film.

The booklet successfully captured the essence of AyaBambi, not just through visuals, but by immersing readers in their world. The typographic treatment gave the words movement, making the experience of reading about AyaBambi as striking as watching them perform. This project was a celebration of their artistry—transforming a written article into a multi-sensory exploration of their unique style.

Outcome

Black surface with small red Japanese text in the center.