TypeCon2017 Call for Programming

The Society of Typographic Aficionados is now accepting programming proposals for TypeCon2017 — taking place August 23rd to 27th in Boston, Massachusetts.TypeCon covers an increasingly broad range of topics, including: typography; type design; font production; graphic design; digital media; printing history; calligraphy; lettering; book arts; advertising; wayfinding; type in motion; literacy; type sales and marketing; legal issues; design education; and other related areas.We are currently seeking proposals for presentations, panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and other special events.

Deadline for Proposals

Deadline Extended! Tuesday, March 21st, 2017

Who Can Submit?

You! Seriously, anyone can submit a proposal. TypeCon is a submissions-driven conference. Our conference is enriched by the innovation, interest, and intellect you can bring to it. If you have something to share, submit a proposal. If you’re not sure how or what’s involved, keep reading below.

What Do You Get Out of It?

If your proposal is accepted, you will receive a Free full conference registration. You also receive access to a special VIP meet and greet reception.

Programming Formats

Main Conference Program

Friday, August 25thSaturday, August 26thSunday, August 27thPresentation options include:Full-length Presentations

• 40 minutes, including time for audience Q & A

Type in 20 Presentations

• 20 minutes, including time for audience Q & A

Panel Discussions

• Requires a minimum of three panelists representing a range of experience and expertise in a given topic. An experienced moderator is necessary for all panels — the Programming Committee will choose a moderator at its discretion if an appropriate candidate does not emerge. A moderator may also serve as a panelist where appropriate. Panel discussions range from 45–75 minutes, depending on the topic.

Type & Design Education Forum

Thursday, August 24thThe Type & Design Education Forum is unique within the TypeCon format. With specialized content produced for educators by educators, the “Ed Forum” provides a unique opportunity to share and learn from our fellow colleagues in a more intimate, all-day setting prior to main the conference program. Here, you can find inspiration, network, and discover new friends.

• 20 minute presentations, plus time for audience Q & A

Education Forum ThemesIn the interest of a diverse repertoire, we welcome proposals on the following themes:

• Counter-space: Innovative teaching in typography and design.
• Counterpoint: Course projects in typography and design featuring the subtextual or subversive.
• Encounter: Lectures describing the work and life of a special teacher or mentor, and how your own work and teaching have been influenced as a result. Who is your unsung (or well-known) hero?
• Recount: Thesis projects by recent and current graduate students. What was (or is) the process undertaken to acquire a thesis topic as well as the method of development of the thesis? Faculty, encourage your students to submit!

Pre-Conference Workshops

Wednesday, August 23rdThursday, August 24thWorkshops should give attendees and opportunity to “get their hands dirty” and expand their creative, aesthetic, and technological horizons.Full-day Workshops

• 7 hours (with break for lunch at midday)

Half-day Workshops

• 3.5 hours (no break)

Tours & Special Events

Wednesday, August 23rdThursday, August 24thFriday, August 25thSaturday, August 26thSunday, August 27thAny events, tours, exhibitions, or attractions showcasing typography, design, or the visual arts in Boston and the surrounding region are welcome.

How To Submit

We recommend that you review our TypeCon Proposal Tips before submitting your proposal.Proposals for the Main Program, Pre-Conference Workshops, or the Type & Design Education Forum may be submitted using the handy online form.Be prepared to provide the following information as part of your proposal:

• Basic information: Name, affiliation, title, email, phone, social media.
• Bio: Brief biography for publication, 800 characters or less.
  View an example speaker bio
• Photo: Headshot image, 1000x1000 pixels, black & white preferred.
• Abstract: Summary of proposed talk or workshop, 1,200 characters or less.
  View examples of presentation abstracts
• Co-presenter: If you have a co-presenter, the above information is required for that person as well.
• Education Forum: In addition to the above information, a CV and a minimum of 6 supporting images are required for education forum proposals.

Submit Your Proposal!Proposals or ideas for special events may be emailed to program@typecon.comYou may submit multiple proposals.Deadline for all proposals has been extended until Tuesday, March 21st, 2017

Selection Process

All proposals are evaluated and scored using a blind selection process by members of the SOTA board as well as independent, non-affiliated individuals. Details regarding the selection process can be reviewed in our TypeCon Proposal Tips document.Applicants can expect to be notified no later than Monday, April 10th, 2017If you need further clarification or you’re submitting a proposal for the first time and could use some coaching, please contact us. That’s what we’re here for.Email us at program@typecon.comHave someone you’d like to recommend submit a proposal? Do it. It would be best if you gave us an email introduction and we can get the ball rolling.Photo of Nadine Chahine © Helen LysenAll rights reserved. Used with permission.