ART 208 Introduction to Letterpress

Fall and Spring Semesters

This course builds upon the technical and conceptual skills learned in Design II or Typography I. The purpose of this course is to allow the student to step away from digital proccesses and make design in a tactile manner. The student will engaged with antique printing presses using metal, wood type and ornaments to create prints and exploring typographic design solutions. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of craft, experimentation and personal expression through the introduction of the 500 year-old tradition of letterpress printing. This type of relief printing will add an exciting, tactile quality to the students design skill set. The student will be introduced to the history of letterpress as well as how it is used in modern practice. Through discussions and critique, the student will work collaboratively and on individual projects learning elements of design and typography. At the end of the semester, each student is required to contribute to a class portfolio. 5 lecture and studio hours. Prerequisite: ART 211 or ART 218. Art majors only.

3 credit hours