Women and Letterpress Printing 1920-2020: Gendered Impressions

This Element explores the relationship between gender and literary letterpress printing from the early 20th century to the beginning of the 21st century, offering a feminist historiography of printing in a digital age. It is divided into four sections: Historicizing, Learning, Individualizing, and Writing, and is available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This Element explores the intricate relationship between gender and literary letterpress printing from the early 20th century to the dawn of the 21st century. By drawing on examples from modernist writer-printers of the 20s to literary book artists of the early 21st, it offers a novel perspective on the feminist historiography of printing as we navigate the contemporary landscape, where letterpress still holds a unique presence. The Element is structured into four distinct sections:

Historicizing: This section delves into the critical histories of women and print, spanning from the 19th to the 20th and 21st centuries. It sheds light on the challenges and barriers faced by women in the field of printing and highlights their contributions to the art form.

Learning: In this section, we examine the various modes of discourse and training that have enabled women and gender minorities to acquire the craft of printing. We explore the educational institutions, workshops, and mentorship programs that have played a crucial role in fostering their skills and knowledge.

Individualizing: This section presents brief biographical vignettes that showcase the diverse experiences and perspectives of women and gender minorities in the world of letterpress printing. Each vignette offers a glimpse into the unique journeys and achievements of these individuals.

Writing: The fourth section focuses on printers' own written reflections about letterpress. It explores the personal experiences, inspirations, and challenges that printers encounter while working with this traditional printing method.

This Element is not only a valuable resource for scholars and researchers interested in gender studies, print history, and contemporary art, but it also serves as a testament to the resilience and creativity of women and gender minorities in the field of printing. It provides a rich tapestry of stories and insights that contribute to our understanding of the complex interplay between gender, technology, and artistic expression.

This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core, ensuring that its content is accessible to a wide audience and promoting the dissemination of knowledge and scholarship.

Weight: 112g
Dimension: 127 x 178 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009219327