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Mira Mayne's Mira Display Typeface Uses Optical Lens Geometry and Subtractive Cuts

publication · 2026-09-17

Mira Mayne created Mira Display, a typeface that investigates visual perception through the use of optical lens geometry and subtractive techniques. The term "mira," which translates to "to look" in Spanish, embodies Mayne's exploration of letter recognition. Each character is crafted with both convex and concave cuts that direct attention either inward or outward. Drawing inspiration from William Addison Dwiggins, Mayne incorporates pronounced angular cuts to achieve a striking visual impact, utilizing subtraction as a fundamental method. The design maintains a balance between rigid geometric principles and significant contrast, echoing traditional optotype eye charts. Posters showcase dark characters on soft paper, while digital formats exhibit sharp edges. Mayne's project highlights the role of negative cuts in contemporary graphic design. Discover the project on Behance.

Key facts

  • Mira Mayne designed Mira Display, a typography design using optical lens geometry and subtractive cuts.
  • The project originated from a question about how we see; in Spanish, "mira" means to look.
  • Optical lens shapes guide each glyph, with convex and concave cuts slicing through letters.
  • Mayne draws on ideas from designer William Addison Dwiggins, who carved wood puppets with flat planes.
  • Deep angular cuts give each character bold visual weight, and flat negative cuts add life to letterforms.
  • Historical optotype eye charts shaped the font, placing Mira Display on the edge between pure form and text.
  • Printed posters pair dark black glyphs with soft paper tones, while digital screens show sharp corners with crisp precision.
  • The full project by Mira Mayne is available on Behance.

Entities

Artists

  • Mira Mayne
  • William Addison Dwiggins

Institutions

  • Behance

Sources