HMCT is excited to announce our upcoming group exhibition investigating experimental writing systems. We invite designers, typographers, and artists to submit proposals to participate in this showcase, scheduled for late fall 2023 at the HMCT Gallery, located at ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California.
This exhibition will explore writing systems as a creative and expressive medium. Recognizing that writing is a neurological and psychological process, we are particularly interested in artworks that transcend the boundaries of established writing systems. Artists are encouraged to submit work that engages with any of the following:
↘︎Linguistic experiments of an imaginary or invented nature
↘︎Innovative use of writing scripts as a form of code
↘︎Asemic writing (writing without specific semantic content)
↘︎Reinvention or reinterpretation of historical writing systems
↘︎Writing as associated with myths, mythmaking, and folklore
We invite proposals of either existing work or new work specifically created for this exhibition and welcome a diverse range of media, including typography, posters, books, calligraphy, illustration, video, installations, etc. Adherence to the stated theme of the exhibition as well as a diversity of perspectives and artistic expression will be the major considerations of the selection committee.
Important information
↘︎There is limited funding available to help realize new projects. Once final selections are made, financial assistance will be determined on a project-by-project basis.
↘︎Shipping costs outside of Southern California will be covered by HMCT.
↘︎A catalog will be produced at the conclusion of the exhibition featuring the participating artists and their work.
Important dates
Proposal submission deadline: August 20, 2023
Notification of acceptance: August 31, 2023
Final work to be received by: October 12, 2023
Exhibition dates: November 2023–March 2024 (exact dates TBD)
Visit our public are.na channel for a collection of references connected to the exhibition’s theme. You can use these as a starting point or for inspiration. Keep an eye on the channel for updates, as we will frequently add new content, and anyone may contribute to it.
For further information or questions, contact HMCT Curator Lavinia Lascaris: lavinia.lascaris@artcenter.edu
HMCT Gallery
Located at the entrance to ArtCenter’s 950 building, a former supersonic jet-testing facility, the HMCT Gallery displays notable work in typography letterform design and visual communication. The Gallery plays a critical role in the mission of the HMCT to reinforce the meaning and value of typography; elevate and advance the understanding of both graphic design and typographic practice and honor the past while anticipating the future of typography in print, digital, and emerging media. Exhibitions range from academic research projects to surveys of influential historical designers and contemporary, language-based art. Our projects have been recognized by Communication Arts, International Design Awards, Type Directors Club, and Graphic Design USA.
