Manuscript Cultures
Beyond Visualising Language
5 May 2023

Photo: Uta Lauer
From 11-12 May 2023, a CSMC workshop at Deichtorhallen Hamburg revolves around the art of writing and writing as a form of art. Six artists present their works on site and, in conversation with researchers and the audience, explore the relationship between language, writing, meaning, and aesthetics.
‘Beyond Visualising Language’ is an academic conference and art exhibition at the same time – and above all, it is a forum for conversations about the art of writing from both a scientific and an artistic perspective. On 11 May, eight lectures will focus on different writing traditions, for example Hebrew, Persian and Chinese. The keynote lecture will be given by the German philosopher Sybille Krämer.
On 12 May, six artists will present their work. What all these artists have in common is that writing plays a vital role in their works. Axel Malik, who is currently Artist in Residence at CSMC, has developed what he calls ‘the scriptal method’, a writing process that yields highly individual sign-like characters that never repeat themselves. Graffiti pioneer Mirko Reisser alias DAIM, also closely connected with the Cluster, has been one of the defining figures of the Hamburg graffiti scene for decades and is internationally renowned for his ‘style writing’. The texts in the works of Philip Loersch are handwritten but are practically indistinguishable from printed texts. Calligrapher David Maisuradze will give a sample of his art with a writing performance. The poet Dagmara Kraus will present her unique ‘cut out poems’. Last but not least, Timo Nasseri, also a former Artist in Residence, will discuss his works which establish a fascinating synthesis of influences from Western and Islamic culture.
The event takes place in two languages: the lectures on the first day will be held in English, the presentations on the second day will be in German.
‘Beyond Visualising Language’ will take place in the Auditorium of Deichtorhallen Hamburg. All lectures are open to the public and free of charge. To participate, please register via our online registration form.