Last summer, Ann Bessemans’ research group READSEARCH was launched. READSEARCH provides a unique environment that brings together design researchers, typeface designers, scientists, students and stakeholders through research, courses and documentation. As a research group, READSEARCH focuses on reading research. Type design and/or typography is looked at from a multidisciplinary and scientific perspective, but always with a practical attitude. The artistic practice forms next to, based on and in dialogue with experimental, but theoretically funded research a substantial share. This talk will explain the need for such a research group. It explores the necessity to combine the objectivity of scientific research with the sensibilities of designing, or in other words: connecting the artistic reflective manners and the scientific analytical ones. The lecture will also offer insights into READSEARCHs core topics, covering both impaired and normal readers. The lecture will additionally discuss possibilities in collaboration in projects and with other researchers. Co-presenters: Ann Bessemans, Kevin Bormans, and Maarten Renckens.
READSEARCH – A Platform for Reading Research
Ann Bessemans
