LOVE AT FIRST PRESS
My grandparents (left), and great-grandparents (right) enjoying some quality time with baby me!
THE PRESS
For those of you who like to get technical, "Imogene" is a Kelsey Excelsior 6x10 tabletop press. She was manufactured in Meriden, Connecticut some time between 1875 and 1975. My research has revealed that she is likely one of the Kelsey Company's later models, as her ink table rotates in a clockwise direction.
If you have any information or resources pertaining to this press I'd love to hear from you! There's always something new to discover!
ABOUT THE ARTIST
The story of Shuttle Press & Bindery starts long before I was digging through lead type and sewing text-blocks. In fact, it was a story that began long before I was born.
I have always been aware that artistic talent runs in a family. I did not know however, that a passion for something as specific as letterpress was able to pass down through the bloodlines. How coincidental a craft to be picked up by family members three generations apart.
After falling in love with letterpress and bookbinding in college, I came to discover that my great-grandfather, Thomas Johnson, owned and operated a small tabletop press. He and my great-grandmother, Imogene, also worked together to create beautiful handmade stationery.
Now, nearly 50 years later, I have come to own that very same press. Despite being stored away for so many years the press was in beautiful shape when I inherited her. She needed some oil, new rollers, and a good cleaning, but was certainly no worse for wear. I am proud to say that "Imogene", as I affectionately named her, is printing once again.
I was born into a farming family in Stonington, CT. As a child I had always loved the arts, and excelled at drawing and painting. I knew that the art world was the place for me.
After graduating high school, I decided to pursue my degrees at Montserrat College of Art in Beverly, MA.
In December of 2013 I completed the requirements to fulfill a BFA in Graphic Design and a BFA in Illustration. Having fallen in love with the area, I decided to stay in Beverly, Massachusetts to build my career.
I am currently working full-time as a graphic designer, but I am always open to freelance projects and custom work!
You can view my professional portfolio online at: