Liel Binyamin

I am a graphic designer specializing in UX/UI, with a strong interest in expressive typography and concept-driven design. My work is deeply influenced by my background in Japanese studies, where I spent two years learning the language at the Japanese Studies Center in Tel Aviv and completed the JLPT N4 proficiency exam. Although I eventually chose to shift my focus toward digital design and UX/UI, Japanese culture and visual language have remained a constant influence in my work. I was particularly drawn to Kanji, not only as a writing system but as a visual structure where meaning, movement, and balance coexist. This influence led me to explore type design as a way to bridge cultures. While researching the field, I identified a noticeable gap in Hebrew typography—especially in expressive, handcrafted styles. Many existing Hebrew fonts feel technical or rigid, lacking the organic qualities found in traditional calligraphy. My type design process begins with physical materials. I work with ink and calligraphy pens, creating multiple hand-drawn sketches that focus on gesture, pressure, and flow. I intentionally embrace imperfection, allowing irregularities and ink textures to become part of the visual language. These qualities are what give my typefaces their unique character. I then translate these sketches into digital form using Illustrator and FontForge, carefully balancing expressiveness with functionality. My goal is not to replicate Japanese writing, but to reinterpret its principles within a Hebrew context. For me, typography is more than communication—it is a form of visual expression. Through my work, I aim to create typefaces that feel alive, human, and culturally layered.