Mastering Animation Curves for Typography: Enhancing Motion Design at Bristol Old Vic

Typography in motion can transform a simple navigation menu into an engaging, tactile experience. At Bristol Old Vic, refining the animation curves for the navigation lettering has become a key focus. Small tweaks to Cubic Bezier handles have shifted the letterforms from stiff and robotic to lively and sophisticated. This post explores how adjusting these curves creates a snappy yet elegant feel that aligns with the theatre’s raw and honest brand identity.

Understanding the Role of Animation Curves in Typography

Animation curves control how motion progresses over time. The Cubic Bezier curve, a popular tool in motion design, defines easing functions that dictate acceleration and deceleration. By fine-tuning these curves, designers can craft animations that feel natural and responsive rather than mechanical.

For the Bristol Old Vic lettering, the goal was to avoid linear, predictable movements. Instead, custom easing curves introduce personality: