Long-Distance Letterpress: The Acrobatic Alphabet

Why you should take this class

Let’s explore abstract typography, and using language as image, through the limitless possibilities found in physical letterforms! The precision demanded by letterpress equipment requires planning, but that doesn’t mean some inspired improvisation is prohibited. Once ink hits paper, allowing color to organically shift or embracing accidental misalignments can lead to a thoughtful change of composition. Via Zoom, we’ll visit Amada Press, where brainstorming is a physical act of discovery and contemplation, and the results are positively acrobatic! 

What you’ll learn

In our two hours together, we’ll explore how letterforms communicate beyond words when used expressively in abstract compositions. By combining a systematic approach to type form building with a spontaneous printing spirit, you’ll learn how to use serendipitous discoveries—and the constraint of time—to improve your creative agility. Here’s what Amy has in store for this abstract typography letterpress class:

• Seeing and leveraging the positive and negative shapes of type
• Sharing creative prompts and methods of approach
• Demonstrating time-efficient tricks that foster fresh perspectives on design and color decisions 
• Reviewing examples of work, discoveries made, lessons learned
• Plenty of letterpress printing!

All participants will receive a copy of the finished print in the mail.

Prerequisites

This workshop consists of a demonstration and interactive Q&A, with no advance preparation or supplies necessary to participate.

Who should take this class?

This abstract typography letterpress workshop is for anyone who loves letterforms and wants to learn how to refine their design practice by loosening up on press, without sacrificing craftsmanship. While you’ll get the most out of the class if you have letterpress experience, this workshop will be a feast for the senses for the letterpress-curious as well. The class will be taught on a Vandercook proof press, but the methodology works just as well on a platen press.

Will this class be recorded?

All of PiP’s classes are live, uncensored, and unrecorded—we find it’s a lot more fun and interactive this way. They are closed captioned using Zoom’s Live Transcription feature; to make the most of this tool, update to the most recent version of Zoom.

Visit our FAQ page to learn more about PiP’s class policies.