Typographically speaking, all roads lead to Rome. For the average typophile no greater mecca exists.
“From Trajan Column inscriptions to lettered trattoria signs, around every corner in Rome is a feast of typographic riches.” – Louise Fili
Each year, I shamelessly toot my horn about the SVA Masters Workshop in Italy, co-chaired by Lita Talarico and me, which features a legion of Roman and American faculty (see below). For two weeks of Summer 2012 (from May 27 – June 10), Rome is the stage for our intensive hands-on workshop in design history, theory and contemporary practice. Our classroom is at Sapienza, University of Rome Piazza Fontanella Borghese, but the streets and piazzas, museums and forums are our workshop. And we spend quality time at the Biblioteca Angelica, Rome’s first library.
Participants are poised to research and analyze the roots of typography, draw type and letters from the classic models while practicing contemporary design. In addition to traditional print, our workshop emphasizes the multidisciplinary and entrepreneurial nature of contemporary design. Our various collaborations result in unique (publishable*) print and web projects. For more inspiration see the video and visit the website. To learn about the February 27 Arts Abroad info session go here.
Workshop Faculty:
Dr. Darius Arya, co-founder, American Institute for Roman CultureCristina Chiappini, graphic designer, new media designer, University of RomeJames Clough, typographer, calligrapher, MilanLouise Fili, designer, Louise Fili Ltd and author of ItalianissimoMario Fois, designer, Vertigo Design, RomeMario Rullo, designer, Vertigo Design, RomeMauro Zennaro, designer, typographer, Rome
(Poster, above, designed by Louise Fili Ltd)
*Brynley Farr (Masters Workshop in Italy 2011) created “Barche di Venezia” for Fabriano.
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