Georgian type in Europe: historical research and contemporary practice

​For almost two years, type designers Anya Danilova and Yury Ostromentsky (CSTM Fonts) have been researching the first Georgian metal typeface, created in Rome in 1629, with the aim of developing a contemporary digital interpretation of it. What began as a preparatory investigation grew into an independent research project tracing the presence of Georgian script and language in Europe from the 17th to the 19th centuries, uncovering typographic mysteries and leading to the rediscovery of the original punches.

The findings were to be presented at an exhibition at BULAC in Paris, developed over the past year. Although the exhibition is fully installed, its official opening, scheduled for 10 November, has been cancelled due to the library's temporary closure.

Originally conceived as part of the exhibition's opening programme, this discussion will now take place at Production Type's studio in Paris, which has generously agreed to host the event.

In the course of the discussion, Anya Danilova will introduce the research behind the exhibition, its methods, discoveries, and unresolved questions, and present Niceforo, a contemporary interpretation of the first Georgian metal typeface designed together with Yury Ostromentsky.

Ana Sanikidze, a Georgian type designer, will discuss her experience designing Georgian counterparts for Latin typefaces released by European foundries, as well as the research she is currently conducting at the Atelier national de recherche typographique (ANRT) in Nancy.
The conversation will be moderated by Adelina Shaidullina, researcher and curator of the exhibition.

The event will also mark the launch of a bilingual publication in Georgian and English, documenting the findings, providing additional historical context, and explaining the research methods behind the project. Copies will be available at the event.

Note that the discussion will be held in English.