Allan McCollum Typography Design

The Allan McCollum Typography Design was developed by CTP – Conversation Taking Place for Galerie Thomas Schulte. It accompanied the artist’s large-scale work The World, A Moment in Time at Art Basel Unlimited 2024, and it translated a conceptual structure into a spatial and typographic format.

Typography for Mass and Identity

McCollum’s work included over 1,200 of the most common first names worldwide, so the typography had to be extremely consistent. Each name carried equal visual weight, because the piece reflected ideas of mass production and shared identity.

The layout followed a strict typographic grid, although we adjusted spacing and rhythm for clarity. Names were treated with neutrality, while the repetition created a subtle pulse across the surface.

The overall impression feels calm and cohesive, yet every detail was tested multiple times, since legibility was essential.

Collaboration and Production Process

We collaborated closely with Galerie Thomas Schulte, not only on the visual outcome, but also on the technical setup, so the final output would work in both print and spatial presentation.

We created several prototypes, because the installation size required testing different scales and paper finishes.

The digital documentation was developed in parallel, and its layouts followed the same rules, so consistency could extend across media.

This dual approach allowed the work to live both online and in the exhibition, while preserving its conceptual integrity.

Typography Design for Exhibitions

CTP specializes in typography design for exhibitions, especially when projects require structure, clarity, and conceptual alignment.

We adapt our methods to each artist’s intent, so the design feels true to the work.

Our systems are structured, yet flexible, because every project evolves in dialogue with space and content.

If you’re working with data-driven or archive-based content, and you need a visual system that holds it all together, we can help.

As an independent studio based in Berlin, we support long-term creative collaborations, while maintaining clarity and precision.

Explore more on CTP’s homepage. To learn more about the full installation, visit galeriethomasschulte.com and explore the final Allan McCollum Typography Design.