Historic letterpress show opens at TCC’s Visual Arts Center

The letterpress exhibition “What a Relief!” will take place at Tidewater Community College’s Visual Arts Center from Jan. 17 through March 5.

The opening reception will be Jan. 22 at 7 p.m. An informal gallery talk will precede the opening at 6:30 p.m.

Events are free and open to the public.

The exhibition will feature letterpress and relief prints by Hatch Show Print (Nashville, Tenn.) and R-N-R Showprint (Norfolk).

Historically, these eye-catching, iconic posters have been used in the American advertising and entertainment industries and are recognized by their wood type and hand-carved imagery.

Each print is hand designed and inked onto paper using a centuries-old technique that produces unique and vibrant works that act to preserve the letterpress culture.

Over the years, subjects have changed to include broader contemporary themes, but all are known for their distinctive textural and colorful details. The prints are enjoyed and collected worldwide.

The Visual Arts Center is located at 340 High St., in Portsmouth. Information: Shelley Brooks, 757-822-1878.