Bilingual typographic problems and application studies in visual communication environments

Globalization and the need for intercultural communication require multi-scripted fonts for both print and digital applications. This is essentially demanded in the Middle East countries, in which primary language is not English. This research investigates the lack and suggests the importance of bilingual designs. In the first part of this study, which is prepared to investigate the above-mentioned subjects, the history of evolution of Arabic / Persian and English syllables are explained. Despite the similarities of Arabic and Persian alphabet, they have different origins. In order to maintain the privileges and features of these languages, they are investigated as two respective languages. In addition, Latin and Turkish equivalents of Arabic and Persian alphabets, first Arabic/Persian publications and the distinction elements between Arabic/Persian and Latin alphabets are described. In the second part, the characteristics and importance of multilingual or bilingual typography designs are discussed. Research has been conducted about the integration of Chinese, Hindi and especially Arabic scripts with English scripts and information about the systems and utilized methods and other recommendations are provided. The third chapter discusses practical options, concerns and solution suggestions. It also briefly reviews available designs in the multi-language and typographic designs used in Latin and Arabic/Persian abstracts. Museums with bilingual designs in the Middle East are examined in the fourth chapter. In addition, the presentation and analysis of the museum which practical works are designed for are investigated as well. The successful examples of the practical work led to the signage designs for the Tabriz Municipal Museum in Iran based on Latin and Persian abstracts. Designs of logos and brand identifier icons were also carried out to emphasize the value of the museum. Different options have been developed for logo design purposes and a consistent design has been selected as appropriate. Iran's ancient history, rich culture, traditional architecture and unique calligraphy have been influential in the designs.