A Book of (Philly) Art, Design, and Philosophy
Tactile is my senior thesis project and a deeply personal exploration of materiality, process, and design philosophy.
Developed over six months, this experimental book investigates the value of physical and traditional art practices in an increasingly digital world.
The project embraces an intentionally “elementary” aesthetic through its use of CMYK color and typefaces such as Cooper Gothic, Helvetica, and Miller.
This simplicity extends into the making process itself: the book was produced using hands-on techniques including papermaking, screen printing, and hand binding, reinforcing its focus on craft and intentional creation. The project also includes interviews and photographs of creatives working in traditional and print-based mediums, highlighting those committed to sustaining these practices. This was a super rewarding process, and a great way to meet local artists.
The book is structured around three types of spreads:
Visual Spreads — original compositions that communicate the project’s ideas through imagery rather than text
Interview Spreads — structured layouts featuring local artists and their work
Philosophy Spreads — curated writings paired with visuals that connect to themes explored in the interviews
TLDR: I hope you enjoy! ...And keep supporting analog media!
I’m currently exploring opportunities to place Tactile in libraries and independent stores around Philadelphia. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or inquiries. (Book is A5, printed on mixed media, and includes zine and fold out poster)
Featured Artists
Pet Riso
Zak Parsons
Chris Russo
Luka Kimlicko
Process Images
I took a lot of pride in creating nearly every piece of content for the project (besides the credited writings, and some vintage/found iconography!)
It’s me! My name is Sylvia, and I am an artist and designer living in Philadelphia. My work largely explores print techniques and physical media, and this project is no different! Please reach out with any questions, or just to say hi!
Find more of my work, check out my instagram:
@sylviavileno