PROJECT 2v6

Following our exploration of the “@” symbol as a near-universal marker of digital connectivity, we turned our attention to another curious symbol: the ampersand (“&“). While not as globally recognised as the “@” symbol, the ampersand holds a unique place in language and history.

Originating from the Latin word et, meaning “and,” the ampersand is both a linguistic and visual oddity. It transcends its literal meaning, evolving into a symbol that connects thoughts, ideas, and entities. In English, it serves as a shorthand for connection, but its form and history are far more complex than it appears.

In this part of the project, we delve into the ampersand’s transformation over time. We explore its deconstruction across various typefaces and reconstruct it into new, unfamiliar forms. This exploration is part of our broader theme-breaking down symbols, numbers, and letters to see what new meanings emerge when they are reshaped. Through this process, we aim to reimagine familiar symbols and the layers of meaning they carry, whether through language, history, or culture.