ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
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Many Canadian museums have signage in both official languages
(English/French).  A typical approach is to use different typefaces,
colours, etc. for each language to help the visitor quickly focus on the
appropriate language for them.  One innovative low-tech method I have seen
is to use a sliding panel with the graphic (e.g. a map or illustration), and
the appropriate text is available by sliding the panel over the less
appropriate text.  This reduces the textual clutter, and saves on space as
well. If one wanted, it could be spring loaded to reset to the 'dominant'
language.

I have also seen triangular signs where three languages are available (one
on each side) by rolling the triangle faces on its axis (what's the name for
a solid three sided cylinder??).

-George Wurtak, Winnipeg, Canada
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------Original Message-----
Date:    Sun, 13 Nov 2005 08:30:02 -1000
From:    Dare Design <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: Bilingual graphics

ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related
institutions.
****************************************************************************
*

The interpretive graphics at Mokupapapa Discovery Center
for Hawaii's Remote Coral Reefs in Hilo, Hawaii are written in
both Hawaiian and English.

Hawaiian text is followed by English on the same
panel with photo identification that includes Hawaiian,
common English, and Linnaean taxonomy.

Different typefaces were used for each language.
The Hawaiian comes first, followed by English,
in deference to our host culture.

You may see an example of a text panel at:

http://home.hawaii.rr.com/daredesign/mokugraphic.jpg

Aloha,
Richard

Dare Design
45-1112 Haleloke Place
Kaneohe, HI 96744
(808) 235-9585

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