Emma Conway The talk discusses the typography found in the National Library of Ireland, exploring how letterforms trace the history of culture, technology, and design. Typography is more than functional; it is a reflection of its time, capturing the essence of historical moments through style and craftsmanship. In this talk, we will delve into how the library’s rich collection of books, manuscripts, and printed materials offers a fascinating journey through the evolution of type.
We’ll begin with the ornate scripts of medieval Irish manuscripts, such as the Gaelic type and its roots in Insular script, highlighting the intricate artistry and cultural identity embedded in these letterforms. Moving through the centuries, we’ll examine the introduction of movable type in Ireland, the emergence of modern serif and sans-serif fonts, and the influence of global typographic trends on Irish printing.
This journey will uncover how shifts in politics, religion, and society shaped the design of typefaces. From nationalist publications using distinctive Irish letterforms to the global modernism reflected in 20th-century materials, typography tells stories beyond words. By tracing these letterforms, we uncover a visual narrative of Ireland’s past and the profound ways design connects us to history.