The Atypi conference in Brisbane marked a significant milestone for our mobile letterpress project (formerly known as SPAM). This event saw the debut of our mobile printmaking container/studio, which hosted the inaugural series of workshops. The success of this launch has set the stage for an exciting future, including a comprehensive overhaul of the project, thanks to the invaluable support of our project advisor, Robert Heather.
Robert brings a wealth of experience to our team, having made substantial contributions to the Australian art sector. His extensive background includes roles as an arts fundraiser, manager, curator, and producer, working in art galleries, libraries, and museums across Queensland, Victoria, and New South Wales. As the inaugural Director of Artspace Mackay, he founded the Libris Awards for Artists’ Books in the early 2000s. His tenure at the State Library of Victoria saw him managing artistic, literary, and heritage exhibitions for a decade. At the New England Regional Art Museum, he launched the regular Wimble’s Wayzgoose events and associated residencies at the Museum of Printing in Armidale. Additionally, Robert is a board member of the Print Council of Australia and has developed numerous exhibition tours, public programs, and conferences.
With Robert’s guidance, our project has not only undergone a name change but also a strategic shift in focus. The newly titled Movable Type Studio is poised to now bring the art and craft of letterpress printmaking to regional communities across Queensland. This transition signifies more than just a name change; it represents our commitment to fostering education, communication and engagement with our artform through organising outreach programs into communities around Australia.
The success of our inaugural workshops at the Atypi conference in Brisbane highlighted the immense potential of the Movable Type project and we will continue to participate in similar events around South East Queensland. Participants were not only introduced to the creative intricacies of letterpress printing but were also inspired by the rich history and contemporary relevance of this craft. The positive feedback and enthusiastic participation underscored the importance of continuing our outreach efforts.
Looking ahead, the planning for our inaugural 2025 road trip is already in full swing. We plan to travel the container into central and northern Queensland and are seeking funding support to visit venues in Rockhampton, Toowoomba and Mackay. These locations offer unique opportunities to connect with diverse audiences, share the art of letterpress, and celebrate Queensland’s cultural heritage.
As we refine the operations of the Moveable Type Studio and fine-tune our programs, we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Our mission is to make the art of letterpress printmaking accessible to everyone, regardless of their location. By engaging with rural and remote communities, we hope to inspire a new generation of artists, designers and printmakers, fostering a deeper appreciation for this timeless craft.
The debut of the SPAM container at the Atypi conference was just the beginning. With Robert’s expertise and the continued support of our community, we are confident that the Moveable Type Studio will become a beacon of creativity and collaboration, bringing the joy of letterpress to every corner of Queensland. Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this exciting journey!
