Typographica’s type review on Eckmannpsych offers a bit of background inspiration behind the font. It was also picked as one of Typographica’s top favorite typefaces of 2018.
“Eckmannpsych (top image) is a revival of Otto Eckmann’s eponymous Eckmann-Schrift (bottom image), originally released in 1900 at Rudhard’sche Gießerei in Offenbach. Eckmann’s training as a fine artist is evident in this typeface, which is expressive rather than utilitarian. Eckmann-Schrift is an embodiment of the art nouveau style, fashionable at the time of its release.
In revisiting these designs, Edmondson didn’t attempt faithful replicas of the originals. Instead, he took what was good about them and brought those ideas to the next level, replacing (in the case of Eckmann, at least) century-old design decisions with a healthy dose of funk.
It’s difficult to imagine what would have happened if Eckmann had been reincarnated in San Francisco in the sixties. Eckmannpsych gives us at least an idea. Edmonson’s interpretation of Eckmann’s work carries it to an extreme by exaggerating the contrast, changing the proportions, and making the floral forms of 1900 become more . . . exotic? At any rate, Eckmannpsych looks much more dangerous than the original Eckmannschrift.”
