2019 was the 200th Anniversary of the birth of Herman Melville. In celebration of the author and his work the Bodleian Bibliographical Press at Oxford University invited a collaboration with contemporary letterpress printers. The aim was to reflect upon the themes of Melville's book Moby Dick, by printing collectively, the section of the novel, 'Extracts. Supplied by a sub-sub librarian.' I was delighted to be able to take part and chose to explore Extract 35. The project also provided an opportunity to consider our relationship with whales in the 21st century. At the bottom of my print I amend the quote to reflect current man-made environmental issues faced by whales.
“... and the breath of the whale is frequently attended with such an insupportable smell, as to bring on a disorder of the brain.” —Ulloa’s South America.
“... and the stomach of the whale is frequently attended with such indigestible plastic, as to bring on the death of the species.”
Handset letterpress with blind deboss using wood and metal type
Whale created from face and back of woodtype with ornaments for eye and spout
Text 12pt & 6pt Baskerville italic. Whale breath 12pt glint (Monotype B1309 & B1310)
Printed on 42x32cm Somerset Velvet 300gsm soft white paper using a tabletop flatbed proofing press
Limited edition & artist’s proof prints available from my online shop
