We have a fabulous selection of international guests critics visiting us at TypeParis Summer26. We wanted to find out a little more about each of them, so have presented them with a series of questions which they have generously taken the time to answer. Discover Jovana Jocić’ interview.
Biography Jovana Jocić is a type designer and lettering artist based in Belgrade, Serbia. She holds an MA in Type Design from the University of Arts in Belgrade and is a graduate of the Type and Media program. Raised in Eastern Europe, she grew up using several scripts simultaneously, an experience that has given her a deep understanding of multi-script systems. Driven by a desire to expand public awareness on non-Latin scripts, Jovana focuses on Cyrillic and Greek design aiming to highlight their cultural relevance in contemporary design. Some of her recent clients include Dinamo, DJR, Sharp Type and TightType.
Interview
What’s your favorite way to start your day?
Jovana Jocić I usually wake up around 7 a.m. and take my dog for a walk in the woods near my house. When we get back, I make myself a cup of coffee — I can’t start the day without one — and settle down at my desk to begin working. I’m very lucky to work from home in my own small studio, so I don’t have to commute every day. I’ve found that starting work as early as possible suits me best. My focus is strongest in the morning, and that’s when I feel most creative and productive.
What do you do to evade yourself from work?
Jovana Jocić In reality, I’m a very outdoorsy person who loves spending time in nature, especially in the mountains. I also enjoy staying active and moving my body whenever I can. Unfortunately, the mountains are pretty far from where I live, so I make a conscious effort to stay active in other ways. Whether it’s going to the gym, running, or climbing, I always try to fit some kind of movement into my day. On weekends, I make the most of my free time by going hiking and exploring new trails whenever possible.
“Finding the right balance between consistency and authenticity is what makes the process so rewarding.”
– Jovana Jocić
What is your favorite kind of music to listen to while working?
Jovana Jocić I never leave the house without my headphones. Music is a big part of my daily life, and when I’m working out, you’ll almost always find me listening to rap — it gives me the energy and motivation. When I’m working, though, I usually prefer podcasts. I enjoy a wide range of topics, from health and science to storytelling, but true crime podcasts are by far my favorite. I have a few go — to shows that I listen to regularly, and they always make the workday feel shorter and more enjoyable.
What drives you to create new typefaces?
Jovana Jocić Over the past few years, I have focused on developing Cyrillic and Greek typefaces and helping type foundries expand their libraries into new scripts. Some of these projects have been retail fonts, while others have been exciting custom commissions for clients. What drives me is the challenge that comes with every new typeface. When adapting a design to a different script, the goal is not simply to replicate the Latin forms, but to translate the typeface’s personality, rhythm, and overall feeling in a way that respects the unique characteristics of that writing system. Finding the right balance between consistency and authenticity is what makes the process so rewarding. Each script has its own history, logic, and cultural context, and exploring how to give it equal value within a type family is what excites me about every new project I take on.
Do you think AI will change the way to design typefaces?
Jovana Jocić Yes, but probably not in the way many people imagine. AI will likely change how we as type designers work, rather than what a good design is! AI could become a really powerful tool for technical and repetitive tasks such as — kerning, proofing or identifying inconsistencies. However AI could never replace a part of type design that involves judgment, cultural understanding and sensitivity to writing systems. Designing a successful Cyrillic or Greek extension, for example, isn’t just about drawing shapes that resemble the Latin. It requires understanding the history, conventions, and reading habits of that script.
How do you view the evolution of the design scene in Serbia and more broadly, across the Balkans?
Jovana Jocić The design scene in Serbia and the broader Balkans has evolved significantly over the past decade. What I find most exciting is that there is a growing confidence among designers to build on local visual culture rather than simply following global trends. Historically, designers in the region often worked in relative isolation, with limited access to international networks and platforms. Today, that has changed dramatically. Through conferences, social media, independent foundries, and remote collaboration, designers from the Balkans are contributing to projects and conversations on a global scale while still bringing their own perspectives and experiences to the table.
“Some of the most valuable lessons come from trying things that don’t work and understanding why.”
– Jovana Jocić
Do you remember when you decided to pursue design?
Jovana Jocić Before specializing in type design, I studied graphic design both in high school and at university. Even before that, I had always been drawn to art — especially drawing and painting. Creating things visually came naturally to me, and from a young age I knew I wanted to pursue a creative path. I was fortunate to have parents who recognized this passion early on and encouraged me to develop it. Their support gave me the confidence to pursue an education in design and eventually build a career around something I genuinely enjoy.
Do you sketch before moving on to the digital workflow?
Jovana Jocić Absolutely. I’m one of those designers who will always go back to sketching — even in the later stages of the design process. In my case, that usually means reaching for my tablet rather than pen and paper, but the principle is the same. Whenever I encounter a particularly complex shape, need to refine a construction, or simply want to explore alternative directions, sketching helps me think more freely. Before I start moving points in design software, I need to understand the structure, rhythm, and balance of a shape.
Do you have words of wisdom for aspiring and type designers?
Jovana Jocić Don’t be afraid to experiment, stay curious, and ask questions. Some of the most valuable lessons come from trying things that don’t work and understanding why. I would also encourage aspiring type designers to reach out to more experienced designers for feedback and advice. One of the things I love about the type design community is that it’s relatively small, approachable, and incredibly generous with knowledge. Most designers are happy to share their experience and offer guidance, especially when they see genuine enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
Thank you very much Jovana!
– Interview by Manau Quellec
Learn more about TypeParis
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Apply to TypeParis Summer27 course! The deadline for applications will be next 14 March 2027.
