We asked Ann to tell us everything ATypI members could ever want to know about her. She had a great deal to share.
Please provide us with your bio.
Ann Bessemans (prof. dr.) is a legibility expert and award-winning typographic/type designer. She founded the READSEARCH legibility research group at the PXL-MAD School of Arts and Hasselt University (Faculty of Architecture and Arts, and the Data Science Institute (DSI)). At PXL, Ann teaches typography and type design. She is the program director of the international Master program Reading Type & Typography where the subject matches READSEARCH’s research lines.
In 2012, Ann obtained her PhD from Leiden University and Hasselt University under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Gerard Unger. She has been given multiple grants by Microsoft Advanced Reading Technologies (USA) for her innovative and pioneering projects, such as visual prosody. Her practical legibility studies, which are data-driven, contribute to the field of legibility research and international type and typographic design. These studies provide a robust scientific foundation for typeface and typographic design, equipping type designers and typographers with valuable data to better serve the diverse reading needs of all, including those struggling and with impairments.
Ann is also Docent (Typo)Graphic Design and a member of the Data Science Institute, Hasselt University.
Give us a sentence that perfectly describes your love for type.
My love for type is rooted in a passion for understanding and enhancing the legibility of type and text layout, using data-driven research to create typography that serves the diverse needs of all readers, with and without impairments.
Before this year, were you a member of ATypI? If so, when?
Yes, I have been attending ATypI since 2007 and only missed Iceland, Tokyo, and Brisbane.
Were you previously a member of the ATypI board, or a country delegate? If so, when?
No.
Describe your experience/involvement with ATypI activities.
I’ve been actively involved at ATypI Antwerp, being Belgian. In the past, I participated in organisations of poster sessions and educational discussions alongside fellow ATypI members like Satalecka and Leonidas. Additionally, I was involved, quite some time ago, with the Science Interest Group, attending those meetings during the conference.
Tell us about your current and past involvement with other type and design organizations.
I am rather confused with the term involvement (what level of involvement). Of course I have tried to assist and help to spread the word of scientific perspectives on typography in several communities by advising, organising small conferences/talk sessions, consulting, writhing chapters/articles for books and journals, improving/innovation education from that perspective (both at my home institution, at the Plantin and abroad). If needed, I’m happy to dive deeper and provide a list.
Describe your leadership experience with other nonprofits and work with conferences, workshops, publications, teaching, or other activities in the type, design, tech, and related communities.
Wow, what a question :). In sum, an academic career is partly a hobby and, in that sense, moreover volunteering on spreading knowledge about your passion.
- Non-profit is Plantin Institute for Typography in Antwerp, where I actively engage in education and educational board.
- I am currently involved in a BIP (Erasmus +) jointly with PJATK and IPCA on Design for Digital Reading
- Of course, as a part of my position as a professor and researcher giving workshops, writing publications, and staying up to date with the latest advancements in tech to guide my students and implement into the research lines of READSEARCH.
- Look at the CV attached.
Why should ATypI members elect you to represent them on the board of directors?
I have been an active member of ATypI since 2007 and have actively contributed to the community in various capacities. I truly believe that ATypI is at the foreground in communicating the latest advancements and is a driving force in order to bring change/innovation on both academic and educational levels. I have respect for ATypI and the invaluable role it plays in advancing the field of typography.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of assisting with events in Antwerp and engaging with fellow members in meaningful discussions and collaborations. My passion for typography, combined with my extensive experience in both academic, educational, and professional settings, makes me a strong candidate for the ATypI Board. As a legibility expert and award-winning typographic designer, I bring a unique blend of practical and research-driven insights to the table. I founded the READSEARCH legibility research group at PXL-MAD School of Arts and Hasselt University, where I’ve spearheaded innovative projects aimed at improving legibility for diverse audiences. My work, funded by multiple grants, is at the forefront of combining design with data science to create typefaces and typography that meet the needs of all kinds of readers.
My involvement with ATypI has been deeply rewarding. Throughout several lectures, I had the chance to discuss and reflect on legibility and education with peers. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our community. I believe that my background in academic research, education, and design, along with my commitment to accessibility and legibility, positions me well to serve on the ATypI Board. I am eager to bring my expertise to the ATypI Board, where I can advocate for the integration of scientific research into typographic design and educations, providing a platform for discussion, ensuring that our work is both innovative and inclusive.
My goal is to help steer ATypI towards new horizons, fostering collaboration across disciplines and pushing the boundaries of what typography can achieve (from the perspective of education and science). In addition to my academic and professional work, I am actively engaged in various roles within the broader design and research communities. I serve on the advisory board for the journal Visible Language, am a member of the Data Science Institute (DSI), and participate in the Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium’s working group on Art, Science, and Technology. These roles have given me a broad perspective on the intersection of design, technology, and education—an intersection that is increasingly relevant to the future of typography.
I am confident that my experience, passion, and commitment to the field make me a candidate for this important role. I am dedicated to serving our community and ensuring that ATypI continues to be a leading voice in the world of typography. I would be honored to represent you on the board and work to advance shared goals.
Answers and materials were provided by the candidate as part of their self-nomination for the ATypI board election. Candidate is a paid ATypI member in good standing and agrees to remain so if they are elected.