O design brasileiro de tipos digitais: elementos que se articulam na formação de uma prática profissional

Abstract

This research explores the constitution of Brazilian digital type design as a professional field, from its earliest days till the latest developments. Through an open mapping process, milestones, agents and relationships are identified as important steps in its consolidation. Initially categories related to typography and type design in general are defined, demarcating the specific characteristics of this area faced by the paradigm of digital technologies. Then follows a survey of the technological, social and economic conditions underpinning the growth of this field worldwide and particularly in Brazil, as well as ways of placing new designs on the market and some contemporary trends in style and project. Considering the Brazilian context, events promoting digital type design during the 2000 decade are listed, together with the most important Brazilian publications in this field. This is followed by an overview of Brazilian type designs from the mid-1980s through to year-end 2009, based on references in the literature, as well as interviews with Brazilian type designers. The final section indicates the main paths followed in this field, outlining current dilemmas and offering glimpses of possible future scenarios.