Project. reading+writing=arithmetic
Purpose. To develop a structured
series of investigations into language,
writing, and typography. To generate a series of type designs as
the basis for research and development. To develop design procedures
based on research methodologies rather than aesthetic considerations
or rhetorical expositions.
Assignment. This
is a self-initiated project at the Masters level where the student
explores the outer
limits of the typographic experience. It consists of approximately
twenty investigations into typographic and written forms, with
the objective
of exploring the algorithmic systems on which they
are based.
Each individual experiment is intended to investigate
only a single aspect
of the subject. The design process for these test pieces consists
of
researching, prescribing, and executing a series of individual
self-authored ‘briefs’ in a standard format comprising
a proposition, a methodology and a proposed outcome. Several
of these small-scale projects are worked on simultaneously, with
new directions being developed in response
to results. A significant feature of this approach is that it allows
the designer a
continuous close awareness of the decision-making process, providing
opportunities to build continuously on previous work and the space
to learn from failure. The role of the tutor in the context of
this personal journey is not that of an instructor or initiator
but one of ‘critical friendship’, providing ongoing
support and general advice regarding research methods and objectives.
The examples shown on the following pages cover only
a small part of the overall project. For additional information
contact Paul McNeil
at www.paul+@type.demon.co.uk Format. Approximately
thirty publications in book format/various sizes. A series of
Postscript typefaces. A program to generate glyphs automatically.
Time. Six months. |
