The Vandercook Proof Press Celebrates Its 100th Birthday (1909-2009)

March 24 – May 31, 2009

On view are diverse folios from “The Vandercook Book,” a limited edition artists’ book published by Barbara Henry and Roni Gross to celebrate the centennial of the Vandercook Proof Press.  Over 30 master printers such as Tracy Honn, Gaylord Schanilec, Barbara Tetenbaum, John Risseeuw, Ruth Lingen, Peter Koch, Johanna Drucker, Abigail Rorer, and Roni Gross reveal their distinctive artistic expression with the press.  Originally designed for commercial use, the Vandercook Proof Press has developed into a versatile and experimental printmaking medium used by artists.  Techniques employed in the folios include pressure printing, sandragraph, lino cut, polymer plate printing, handset type, linoleum cut, die cut and wood cut, among others. (“Rules for Printers” is a linoleum cut by Mare Blocker.)

Curated by Lyn Korenic, director of the Kohler Art Library, and Daniella Lopez, Information Specialist Intern.

Image:  Mare Blocker.  Linoleum cut.