Rachel Parker

Insular Futurism refers both to the insular style of ancient Irish manuscripts and to the futurist styles of modern graffiti writers. While, at first glance, these styles could not appear more different, closer investigation reveals significant overlap through their exaggerated letterforms and shared emphasis on ornamentation and character.

This project presents a visual aesthetic that merges the style of ancient Irish illuminators with contemporary graffiti practices. The work includes a decorative graffiti lettering style inspired by insular artwork, a typeface influenced by runic manuscript lettering, and a toolkit that uses stencils to reinterpret these ancient styles in a contemporary context.

The project investigates manuscript and graffiti writing as process, art form, and distinct modes of visual communication, while functioning as a celebration of Ireland’s rich artistic heritage.