BYU–Hawaii graphic design students Lan Xi Lin and Hanna Rogers showcased their research at the renowned TypeCon 2024 conference, held in Portland, Oregon, from July 24 to 27. Accompanied by Professor Robert McConnell, an associate professor in the Faculty of Arts & Letters, the students presented their work on typographic culture, to an international audience.
TypeCon is an annual professional conference focused on typography, bringing together type designers, graphic designers, educators, and enthusiasts from around the globe. Professor McConnell explained the significance of the event, emphasizing its relevance for Lin and Rogers “[who are] are both working towards their BFAs in graphic design. This conference allowed them to network and gain insight into the field of graphic design.”
The journey to TypeCon began in McConnell's ART371 Typography and Lettering class, where Lin and Rogers completed a research project. Their work was submitted to the conference's open call for submissions and was selected through a peer review process. "We submitted their projects, and the review team selected our proposal as a relevant and valuable topic for the conference," McConnell shared.
Preparing for TypeCon involved refining their research and creating a detailed presentation. McConnell played a supportive role, assisting with paperwork and offering guidance. “The students had already completed the research for my class. After being selected for the conference, they did additional research and created their presentation. I worked with them to ensure we had the necessary funding and to review their presentations. They did the bulk of the work,” McConnell noted.
Lin, a senior from Taiwan, reflected on her experience at TypeCon. “The biggest thing I learned is that the more you know, the more you realize how much you don't know. Attending the conference felt like being a new convert to the Church attending a youth conference. There were lots of terms I didn't understand, and most of the attendees were educators and professors. It was eye-opening to meet people from different parts of the world because there is so much more to learn."
Rogers, a junior from Japan, focused on a typeface known as “Heta-Uma Typeface,” popular among young women in Japan during the 1980s and 1990s. “I chose this typeface because I'm interested in the culture from the era before I was born. Understanding the cultural background behind the letters sparked a deeper curiosity. TypeCon made me realize how typography reveals various aspects of a country's culture, religious background, and more,” Rogers said.
Both students emphasized the importance of understanding cultural backgrounds in their work. Lin stated, “I feel like I still have a lot to explore. This experience broadened my perspective and made me excited to learn more about design and its applications.” Rogers added, "The experience helped me as a designer choose appropriate typefaces and create new ones inspired by existing examples. This experience has ignited a desire to explore my country's typographic culture further.”
Professor McConnell highlighted how their participation in TypeCon aligns with BYU–Hawaii's mission to mold disciples of Jesus Christ. “It was a great opportunity to interact with people outside of our faith and demonstrate how a disciple of Jesus Christ lives. Exposure to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints helps break down misconceptions and fears.”
Lin echoed this sentiment, sharing an experience where her peculiar religious views clashed with the environment of the attendees. “There were coffee breaks and parties where people were drinking. But I found that I didn't need to drink to connect with others. Sharing my presentation allowed me to connect with people while holding to my standards.”
Rogers reflected on how the experience enhanced her ability to exemplify Christ's teachings. “Deepening our understanding of others is a step toward showing charity, which aligns with Jesus Christ's example. Learning about and embracing cultural, political, and religious differences and showing love and respect despite these differences is crucial. Appreciating and using typefaces from other countries with respect can demonstrate love to others.”
The participation of Lan Xi Lin and Hanna Rogers in TypeCon 2024 exemplifies the integration of academic excellence and spiritual growth, hallmarks of the BYU–Hawaii experience. Their achievements at the conference have not only broadened their educational horizons but also reflected the words of Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, cited by Lin as one of her favorite quotes: “Art shows there is a greater purpose in life which transcends our daily worries, stresses, pleasures, and joys. Art can transmit a message of hope, light, and truth anchored in Jesus Christ, His glory, and His work for the eternal well-being of the whole human race.”
