The printing process, something usually hidden in artists’ studios, is being taken outdoors by Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft in an ambitious crowdfunded project. The Big Steam Print seeks to wow audiences by taking a vintage steamroller on tour to use as a giant printing press. Artists such as Anthony Burrill, Angie Lewin and Rob Ryan are busy designing their biggest ever prints, which are destined to undergo the pressure of a 12.5-tonne steamroller. Students and community groups will also benefit from the opportunity to produce prints with lino, letterpress or wood then watch with bated breath as their finished works are revealed fresh off the steamroller press!
The theatre of printing will be witnessed by thousands as the Big Steam Print tours museums and festivals throughout the spring and summer of 2016. The project takes the steamroller on tour from its base at Amberley Museum in West Sussex; to the Acton depot of London Transport Museum; to the coast as part of Brighton Festival; and to the 700-year-old Village Fair in Ditchling. Prints that survive the force of the steamroller will go on display in a special exhibition at Brighton’s Phoenix Gallery from 6th - 21st August.
Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft raised over £12,500 for the Big Steam Print using the Art Happens crowdfunding site. Hosted by the Art Fund, the website features a campaign video (starring yours truly), which acts as a fun introduction to the project.
Ditchling is famous for the artistic legacy of past residents such as Hilary Pepler, Eric Gill, Philip Hagreen, David Jones and Ethel Mairet. The Big Steam Print forms part of a season of public programming by Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft celebrating 100 years since Edward Johnston designed the London Underground typeface in the Sussex village. The Village of Type programme will include commissions, residencies, lectures, workshops and a host of exhibitions marking the aforementioned centenary and celebrating a contemporary interest in printing, typography and letterpress.
Follow @museumartcraft for the latest updates and go to the museum’s website for details of events taking place throughout 2016.
Address: Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, Lodge Hill Lane, Ditchling, East Sussex BN6 8SP.
Steamroller printing dates:
28th March: Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre, West Sussex
23rd & 24th April: London Transport Museum’s Acton Depot Open Weekend, London
22nd May: The Level, Brighton
18th June: Ditchling Village Fair, East Sussex
