Topic outline

  • Studio information

    Studio: Type & Written Language

    This studio course allows students to examine writing and any of its properties — outside the 'meaning' of a text. That is, the studio exists for exploring the essential techniques and tools of writing — writing systems and typography — in a creative, open-ended manner. Through individual projects undertaken in the span of nine weeks, students might explore, for example, the subversive, forgotten, political, spiritual, or generative aspects of systems of writing in the context of their choice. 

    In practical terms, students will embark on a practice-based or artistic research project, the outcome of which could be, for example, a new typeface, an imaginary writing system, a self-generating encyclopaedia, or an interactive performance. This spring, students may choose between either articulating their own research question and project plan, or following a more structured framework given by the tutor, which will result in a new typeface designed during the studio, and presented in a type specimen at the end of it. (No prior experience in type design is necessary.)

    Individual projects are supported by workshops, lectures and tutorials. In addition to individual projects, participating students are asked to plan and run a 90-minute workshop ('Practical Interlude') for the rest of group at some point during the spring. Practical Interludes are meant as occasions for students to share key aspects and questions relevant to their practice. This might mean getting feedback on something they've designed, beta-testing new typographic tools and drawing instruments, or making a site visit to a place relevant to their project and/or practice.

    The studio will be organised primarily through Discord (server link forthcoming), and teaching will take place primarily on campus.

    Schedule

    1 March – 17 March (weeks 1–3)
    Tuesdays 9:15–12pm
    Wednesdays 1:15–5pm
    Thursdays 1:15–5pm

    22 March – 7 April (weeks 4–6)
    Tuesdays 9:15–12pm
    Wednesdays 9:15am–5pm
    Thursdays 9:15am–5pm

    19 April – 6 May (weeks 7–9)
    Tuesdays 9:15–12pm
    Wednesdays 9:15am–5pm
    Thursdays 9:15am–5pm
    Fridays 9:15am–5pm

    Key dates

    Thursday 3 March: Presentations on initial ideas
    Thursday 17 March: Research presentations, finalising project plans
    Wednesday 6 April: Mid-term presentations / crit
    Friday 29 April: Final presentations / crit
    Friday 6 May: Studio exhibition opens