Run by Monica Kidd, Whisky Jack Letterpress is a Calgary-based print shop that uses vintage presses, incorporating wood or metal type to create poetry, posters, broadsides and ephemera.
Founded in 2014, the print shop was born out of a love of craft and history, a belief in the art of the written word, and the acquisition of an antique letterpress. Kidd has worked as a radio producer, science reporter/editor for CBC’s Quirks & Quarks and short filmmaker. She now works as a family doctor, as well as a writer and poet. Check out her full bio here.
(Photo credits: Whisky Jack Letterpress. Top left: Monica Kidd.)
What we like about this letterpress print shop
When we saw Whisky Jack Letterpress’ broadsides, we immediately knew we needed to stock these in the Young W shop. Throughout the evolution of her career, from media and film, to medicine and writing, Whisky Jack Letterpress founder Monica Kidd clearly demonstrates a deep love of words, images, storytelling and connecting with people in a meaningful way – and that passion is visible in the broadsides and other print art she creates. Her work is part visual art, part poetry and ranges from the hilariously profane “GAS.” series, to Shakespeare (“Sonnet 118”), to the socially conscious, even including visual poetry (“Hearts”). (Written by C.M.)
Ideas for where you can go from here:
- Visit Whisky Jack Letterpress.
- Browse the shop selection and buy a poster or poem.
- Interested in submitting a poem? Scroll to the bottom of the page to view their online submissions form.
- Check out the Whisky Jack Letterpress items in the YW shop.
We love chapbooks, pamphlets and broadsides because they inspire you to experience poetry and art in small bites. Experiencing poetry and art in small bites allows you to find words and images that resonate with you. Finding words and images that resonate with you is part of the flourishing offline life Young W helps you discover: by exploring POETRY and the other 8 pillars of Arts & Letters, including those you may be hesitant to try.
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