Letterpress Workshop with the Museum and King University

Date: Saturday, March 16, 2024

Time: 1:00-3:00 p.m. ET (optional additional activity afterwards)

Location: Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Learning Center

Cost: $20 + tax/fees

REGISTER HERE

Join us on Saturday, March 16, 1:00-3:00 p.m. at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum for a letterpress workshop led by David Winship and Lee Jones.

Letterpress printing originated in the mid-15th century with Johannes Gutenberg’s invention of the movable type printing press. In letterpress printing, raised metal type or plates are inked and pressed onto paper, creating an impression of the text or image. This technique revolutionized the dissemination of information and played a crucial role in the spread of literacy and knowledge during the Renaissance and beyond. Despite advancements in printing technology, letterpress printing remains cherished for its tactile quality and vintage aesthetic, often utilized in artisanal and specialty printing projects today.

This workshop will include a talk about the history of letterpress printing, a hands-on introduction to some of its elements (e.g. block letters), and an opportunity to use a portable poster press. Each participant will leave the workshop with a special workshop-themed poster that they have printed themselves.

Attendees will also get a guided tour of our current special exhibit, A Cardboard History of Blue Ridge Music, which is based on letterpress-printed concert and performance posters and show cards. Following the 2-hour workshop, interested participants are invited to go with David and Lee to King University to tour the Sign of the George, the university’s working letterpress, and to share some refreshments. There is a limit of 20 participants so sign up now!

This program goes along with our current special exhibit and is offered in partnership with King University.

David Winship

David Winship is a native of Bristol, Tennessee, and he grew up with the Sign of the George letterpress at King College, now King University. His father started the press as an educational tool, and David learned the ins and outs of the press there. Following a career in public education, David has retired to his home place in Bristol and is operating the press at King with the support of the Digital Media Art and Design department.

Lee Jones

Lee Jones is an Assistant Professor of Photography and Digital Media at King University. Originally from Bristol, Virginia, he also works professionally in the community as a commercial photographer and digital marketer. When he’s not with his family, he is teaching, creating images, making music in the community,
or volunteering for local art organizations. You can see more of his work on his website at: HerbertLeeJonesPhotography.com.