I just recently learned about the work of Amos Kennedy, through wnyc's Culture blog. A computer programmer turned old-school printer, Kennedy runs a print shop in Gordo, Alabama, using wood type and turning out amazing broadsides that feel like a piece of American history. Sometimes political, sometimes community-focused, always lively.
As anyone who has worked with wood type on a press knows, creating a lock-up is an endeavor of patience and love. In this digital age, we have come to expect everything instantly, but this type of process takes you back to a time when the pace of life was a bit slower. As his website states, his print shop is "on the cutting edge of 19th century technology!"
For my fellow NYC-ers, Amos Kennedy has guest-curated the current show at the Center for Book Arts, together with Alexander Campos, entitled Racism: An American Family Value, up through September 12. Also, TOMORROW NIGHT, Wednesday August 5th at 6:30, the Center for Book Arts will be showing Proceed and Be Bold!, a documentary on Amos' life and work. Cool!
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