Aberdeen and the Printed Word
Aberdeen and the Printed Word
2008 marked the 500th anniversary of the printed word. The important role Aberdeen played in the history of the printing word formed the basis of a City-wide arts and heritage project, tackling inequalities in Scottish Society.
The Arts Development Team, working alongside Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums, set out to investigate the local history of printing in Aberdeen. The project 'Aberdeen and the Printed Word' was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and enabled groups and individuals from Aberdeen to learn about the local heritage of printing, and the role literacy has played in life throughout the ages.
Arts Development staff recruited groups from both the City Centre and regeneration areas, whilst a researcher was brought in to scrutinise collections and guide the various groups. Groups were encouraged to access local resources and venues such as the City Archives, Central Library, Aberdeen Art Gallery, Provost Skene's House and Peacock Visual Arts, whilst taking part in a range
of creative workshops, run by local artists, designed to bring hands-on understanding of various printing processes.
The project culminated in an exhibition on show at Aberdeen Art Gallery from 18th April until the 17th May 2009. Exhibited are examples of creative writing, digital prints, ceramics, bronze casting, screen printing, collographs, embossing and three dimensional boxes. A booklet celebrating the heritage of printing in Aberdeen and a learning pack has also been produced and will be used for future projects.
Back to the Arts Development home page.