This online speaker series presented in conjunction with the exhibition Quasi: Experimental Writing Systems, features a diverse lineup of designers, artists, and linguists. These experts operate in the world of invented and fictional writing systems, where typography meets language preservation, Hollywood’s sci-fi worlds, and linguistic innovations beyond anthropocentric perspectives.
Session 1/4: Language Creation in Science Fiction
Christine Schreyer & Louie Mantia
This session studies the crafting of fictional languages for science fiction films, revealing the complexities that enrich narrative world-building and captivate audiences. Linguistic anthropologist Christine Schreyer and alien type designer Louie Mantia share insights into the creative processes behind Kryptonian for Hollywood’s “Man of Steel” film and the writing systems of Netflix’s “Rebel Moon,” illuminating the skill in constructing languages that breathe life into sci-fi universes.
Session 2/4: Crafting Personal Alphabets
Calder Ruhl Hansen & C.C. Elian
This episode focuses on the design of personal alphabets as a fusion of individual identity, artistic vision, and cultural influences. It explores inventive journeys of creating alphabets that merge written language with personal expression. Calder Ruhl Hansen presents his method for developing unique writing systems, drawing inspiration from Canadian Aboriginal Syllabics, math, and other influences, employing innovative techniques to forge meaningful symbol systems. C.C. Elian discusses Elian Script, an alphabetical script rooted in the Latin alphabet that echoes the aesthetic qualities in Asian calligraphy.
Session 3/4: Language Representation & Preservation
Ibrahima Barry/Abdoulaye Barry & Zeke Oyinlonye
This session showcased how creating new scripts is crucial for cultural preservation, enabling the documentation and revitalization of at-risk languages. Brothers Ibrahima and Abdoulaye Barry discussed the creation of ADLaM, a script designed for the Fulani language widely used across a vast region of West and Central Africa. Ezekiel Oyinlonye shared his process of creating Kiko, a writing system that better represents the Yoruba language spoken primarily in Nigeria and parts of Benin and Togo. The discussion also stressed the importance of linguistic diversity, illustrating how typography can contribute to maintaining the broad spectrum of global languages. (This session is not available for streaming.)
Session 4/4: Writing with the Natural World
Marianne Hoffmeister/Patricio Gonzalez & Yuchen Chang
Exploring the intersection between the natural world and linguistic innovation, this session examines how environmental inspirations lead to unique writing systems and typographies. Visual artist Marianne Hoffmeister and type designer Patricio Gonzalez presents Castor, a typeface created by tracing beaver teeth marks. Yuchen Chang discusses the Coral Language project, which interprets corals‘ complex forms and colors into a distinctive language, showcasing how natural patterns can inspire linguistic and design elements. The session reflects on the capacity of language and design to extend beyond anthropocentric perspectives, incorporating expansive and inclusive viewpoints.