From movable type to digital fonts, the journey of typesetting is a fascinating story of technological innovation and cultural evolution. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the invention of phototypesetting, a groundbreaking advancement that forever changed the publishing, print, and design industries.

An ongoing exhibition in Tokyo delves into this revolutionary technology, celebrating its history and its enduring impact on typography and beyond. This exhibition offers visitors a chance to explore phototypesetting’s pivotal role in shaping the printed word as we know it today.

A Revolution in Printing Technology

Before the advent of phototypesetting, Japanese printing relied heavily on movable type—a labor-intensive process requiring large amounts of metal to cast the many characters needed for print. Phototypesetting emerged as a game-changer, using photographic engineering principles to streamline and modernize printing.

This innovation not only simplified the printing process but also revolutionized work environments in the publishing industry. By eliminating the complexities of movable type, phototypesetting allowed for the creation of diverse and beautiful typefaces, enriching the visual appeal of printed media.

A Bridge to the Digital Era

Phototypesetting stands as a transitional milestone between traditional movable type and the digital fonts we use today. Its introduction brought a wealth of aesthetic possibilities to the printed page, paving the way for modern type design and enabling a broader range of creative expression in typography.

What to Expect at the Exhibition

Visitors to the exhibition will journey through the history of phototypesetting, gaining insights into its mechanisms and its transformative role in design and publishing. Highlights include:

• Rare artifacts showcasing the evolution of typesetting technology.
• An exploration of the creative impact of new typeface designs made possible by phototypesetting.
• Interactive displays that demonstrate how phototypesetting bridges the gap between traditional and digital typography.

Exhibition Details

Venue: P&P Gallery

Location: Toppan Koishikawa Bldg., 1-3-3 Suido, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 112-8531

Schedule: Sep 21 (Sat) 2024 – Jan 13 (Mon) 2025

Closed: Mondays; *Open on September 23, October 14, November 4 and January 13. *Closed on September 24, October 15, November 5 and December 28 to January 5.

Hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (final admission: 17:30)

Fee: Adults ¥500; University Students ¥300; High School Students ¥200; Junior High School Students and Under, Seniors 70 & Over free.

More Information: https://www.printing-museum.org/en/collection/exhibition/t20240806.php