June 2014 Luncheon Meeting

Speakers: Martha Chiplis and Cathie Ruggie Saunders

“For the Love of Letterpress”

Caxtonian Martha Chiplis and Cathie Ruggie Saunders will give an illustrated talk about their recent book: For the Love of Letterpress, a guide book that has been called “brilliant,” “inspirational,” “an excellent resource,” and “a visual treat.” Published in 2013 by Bloomsbury, the book addresses why a 15th- century printing technology, based upon crafting with one’s own hands, still has appeal and value to a 21st-century digitally literate society. Out of 2000 images, the authors chose the work of 100 printers from 23 countries. Caxtonians included: Bill Hesterberg, Bob McCamant, Audrey Niffenegger, Caryl Seidenberg, and Muriel Underwood. Many of the photographs are by Caxtonian John Dunlevy. Martha was a letterpress printer and designer at Sherwin Beach Press for 16 years; she bought her own press in 1989. Since 2008 she has taught at the Art Institute of Chicago. Cathie has been proprietor of the Hossana Press since 1972 and, since 1980, has overseen the letterpress shop at the School of the Art Institute, a period of tremendous growth. An equally fascinating talk for students of letterpress and those who are not.

Union League Club, 65 W. Jackson Boulevard. Luncheon buffet (in the main dining room on six) opens at 11:30 am; program (in a different room, to be announced) 12:30-1:30