01/14/2023
In this initial entry in our blog, we are writing to introduce ourselves and to let you know that GarageFonts is starting a new chapter. I am Jon Young (Tiotype), the new owner of GarageFonts as of June 2022. Our headquarters is currently based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
To begin, we'd like to say a few words about Ralph Smith, previous owner of the foundry. In 1999, Ralph's font distribution company Phil's Fonts purchased GarageFonts from Betsy Kopshina and Norbert Shultz, the original founders of the foundry. Under Ralph's leadership, GarageFonts experienced 23 years of creative innovation and steady growth.
Sadly, Ralph passed away in Silver Spring MD, on October 4, 2022. I had met Ralph in 2003, when he hired me to work with him and he became a great mentor. Without his wisdom, training, and advice I would not have been involved in the font world to the degree that I am today. Ralph ran Phil's Fonts and GarageFonts with an equal measure of energy, passion, humor, and determination that will always be an inspiration.
Going forward, the new GarageFonts aims to be a steward of the library and to build on its legacy by releasing new typefaces that are relevant, significant, purposive, and beautiful.
—Jon
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