Restoration of the Analogue (Kim Vousden)

The qualities and tactile nature of analogue print processes have become overlooked with the onset of the digital revolution. Perhaps this is why the St Bride Institute, based in Fleet Street, has become somewhat underfunded and neglected by contemporary print design. With 7 million pounds needed for the restoration of the building and its facilities, I propose a final outcome that both raises the profile of the Library and the general appreciation for the tangibility that printing has to offer.

Within a meeting with Nigel Roche from the St Bride Library, it was made clear that he is very keen to involve me within the funding of building work hopefully -commencing in 2008. Regarding this he appreciates that while I will work closely with the library that my actual project should be confined and restricted as little as possible, however my response must be in collaboration with how the library wishes to be represented. I propose using a graphic outcome that will capture the qualities of the analogue process; while raising funding for the library...be it a short addition of sellable books or posters, merchandise etc.

Finally, in the pursuit of funding the Library intends to set up an American branch of the 'Friends of St Brides'. Promotional material is needed here to encourage interest in its cause and Nigel is keen to involve me in this also.








Bullet Points for Thursday

- Begin stating my passion for tactile print in evermore digitized environment

- Explain that I want to hold an exhibition posing the question of the relevance/richness of tactile print in contrast with our evermore digitized environment.

-This exhibition will be held at the St Bride Institute, it's own plight of renovation or closure suggesting a general feel that analogue print processes have little to offer contemporary design.

- Spoke with Nigel Roche on Tuesday 20Th Feb, eager for me to be fully involved with committee; interested in incorporating American Branch of the "Friends of St Bride's" to provoke interest.

- Designers/enthusiasts will be approached to submit work/statements that best portray this and why they think the library is a valuable resource; They will be asked to offer work (perhaps inspired or researched using the libraries resources) and editorial that reflect their passion for analogue print. People such as: Alan Kitching, Derek Birdsall etc

- Promotional Material to be designed and 'printed' by myself for the event. Proceeds given to the libraries £7 million pound renovation project. Further promotions i.e newspapers, radio stations etc will be needed to generate interest. Separate online website is a possibility. Special blog site set up posing the question, 'Is the St Bride Library and what it stand for still relevant today?'

St Bride Library (Pre-Renovation)
AIGA Walker Art Center Brochure (Below)