ingrid ankerson at signal-return
Moving Type: Texture/Pattern/Geometry/Obsession
“I’m interested in the potential of typography using the “old school” method of printing—that is, working with historic, movable type and the printing press—but in non-traditional ways. I use very small, metal pieces of type and the act of repetition and movement to create geometric shapes, textures, dimensions, and patterns. Each tiny letter is organized by hand on the bed of my press; I print what’s there, rotate the form in a tool called an angle chase, and print again. A single piece of paper may go through the press hundreds of times to achieve the resulting design.
Each print is made with 8 or 10 point Caslon, a typeface designed by William Caslon (1692-1766) who was an English gunsmith, engraver, and type designer much admired by Benjamin Franklin. So much so, that Franklin chose one of Caslon’s designs as the typeface for the Declaration of Independence.” –Ingrid Ankerson
Silver ink shimmers on black paper while tiny 8s layer and curl into what could be an ocean seashell’s inner sanctum. Ankerson weaves English letters or numbers into intricate undulating patterns.
7s generate a sharper result than the soft curves of an 8. Toothed edges read like lacey gears turning into each other.
Colored ink on white paper delivers a lighter feel than the dramatic black surface. With no reduction in the size of the As or adjustments in value of the ink, the letters tighten toward the center producing a distinct optical illusion.
Slate blue and earthy orange swirl Us into a solitary circle. Depth and movement present where the muted contrasting colors overlap. Love the line of vowels, including Y, at the bottom with the indication to the corresponding letter.
This is not your childhood spirograph. Ankerson uses this tool, called an angle chase, to print type on any angle. Her precise, radial compositions’ deceptive simplicity is mystifying.
This is the premier exhibition at Signal-Return since relocating to the East Village. The Lantern building is also home to PASC and will be entertaining a couple new residents soon. And it’s deliciously close to Sister Pie 😉
On view through September 13th at Signal-Return 9301 Kercheval Ste #1, Detroit
*images are mine
direct quote from gallery materials
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SHOWS OPEN THIS WEEKEND
Both the artist's process and her art are thoughtfully and artfully rendered here. Ankerson's work reminded me of 18th-century botanical illustrations. Lovely
Interesting!