alphabet antics

What a fabulous show!!

Riley Winks

To AQ, with love.

Cool exhibit!

Large-scale handmade paper sheets were required for this project. The pulp was beaten using a 2 lb. hollander beater (made by David Reina Designs), measured out, poured into a deckle box and drained. The wet pulp was then pressed and placed into a restraint dryer. Here is a short clip on how a deckle box “poured” paper sheet is formed.

These handmade paper alphabet blocks were letterpress printed using wood type on a Vandercook no. 4 machine. This particular type of press was invented in 1935 by Robert Vandercook & Sons in Chicago, IL. It was one of the first “geared” presses used to print that did not rely on gravity. This particular model was manufactured until 1960. Today this type of press is highly sought after by printers and artists. It is often used to produce broadsides (posters) and artist books. Several blocks were also printed using a Reprex press--similar to the Vandercook.

Historically, alphabet blocks were utilized as a tool for learning letters, words, and narratives: linking knowledge and play. By looking at the physical act of how we learn to read through our senses by playful, spatial manipulation of surface, construction and deconstruction, we preserve the richness of words and the ability to invent. Metaphorically, as in all learning, we cannot understand until we take apart, examine and rebuild. This interactive installation of adult-sized alphabet blocks invites the viewer to participate in constructing and sharing his/her own narrative.