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Discover: Nice & Graphic

Exhibition flyer
  • Written byGiada Maestra
  • Published date 03 July 2024
Exhibition flyer
Image credits Michelle Dwyer

Originally from New York, Peckham-based graphic designer and founder of Nice & Graphic, Michelle Dwyer, spoke to us about how she fell in love with letterpress and decided to set up her dream business.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.

As a Peckham-based letterpress artist with a Graphic Design background (BA and MA), I've recently transitioned from digital to analogue, dedicating myself to the art of letterpress. Having built a print studio, I've honed my skills and now stand on the cusp of a transformative phase. My studio, equipped with a traditional printing press and a vintage woodblock type collection, centers on bold typography aiming to encapsulate the joy in everyday stories. I trained at London Centre of Book Arts and worked as a bookbinder at Paekakariki Press. Currently, I’m working for the world-renowned letterpress artist Alan Kitching, where I’ve diligently built my foundation. Now I'm ready to channel that experience into exploring my own artistic practice.

While successfully operating a stationery business and creating a line of greeting cards - I now want to expand and pivot my focus on to crafting a personal artistic portfolio. I’m involved in the South London community through impactful workshops and Open Days, collaborating with socially-connected organisations like IntoArt, Blueprint for All, South London Cares, and Pecan. This initiative, called 'Printing with a Purpose' aims to introduce diverse groups to the history of the printing press.

What brought you to choose to study MA Communication Design?

I studied Graphic Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. In my final year, I had the amazing opportunity to do an exchange programme at the Chelsea College of Arts, UAL, in 2010. I fell in love with London and knew that I wanted to return one day. Central Saint Martins has a great reputation and was my top choice. I completed the MA Communication Design course there in 2014.

What are some of your favourite memories from college?

My favourite memories from studying at UAL include meeting people from around the world and making new friends. I also had amazing tutors like Rebecca Wright and Fred Deakin.

As a graphic designer and founder of Nice & Graphic studio in Peckham, what motivated you to start your own business?

Both of my parents started their own businesses, so I had them as role models. After working as an in-house graphic designer for five years post-CSM, I spent too much time in front of a screen and craved making something by hand. In 2020, I was able to quit my job and go freelance. I knew I wanted to do something with letterpress printing and have been experimenting ever since.

Did you overcome any challenges along the way?

Switching from digital to analogue. Learning any new skill is always challenging but worthwhile and fulfilling.

What are your main inspirations?

My work, characterised by short sayings and positive messages, reflects my fascination with the interplay between creativity and optimism. I find inspiration in the everyday experiences and stories of people within my local community, which I strive to capture through the art of letterpress printing. This traditional technique allows me to create tactile and visually engaging pieces, and serves as a medium to connect and resonate with others.

I'm also inspired by the work of several renowned designers. Alan Kitching's mastery of letterpress and his bold, expressive typography have greatly influenced my approach to design. Susan O'Malley's uplifting and community-focused art motivates me to infuse positivity into my work. Anthony Burrill's straightforward, yet impactful messages demonstrate the power of simplicity in communication. Erin Fong's innovative use of letterpress to explore themes of identity and culture inspires me to push the boundaries of traditional printing methods. Through my work, I'm focusing on community, creating pieces that visually please, but also  carry meaningful messages that resonate with people's daily lives.

What advice would you give to graduates considering freelancing or starting a business?

My advice is to work part-time with an expert in the field you want to enter. This approach provides you with a steady income to cover your expenses while allowing you to learn from someone at the top of their game. It also gives you spare time to pursue your own business. I've been fortunate to work as an assistant to letterpress legend Alan Kitching, which has been an invaluable experience.

For the past 6 months, you’ve been working on a project involving the Peckham community, which will soon turn into an exhibition. Can you tell us more about it?

I’ve been immersed in a project that aims to celebrate and amplify the voices of the Peckham community. My primary goal has been to curate an exhibition that highlights the vibrancy of Peckham and encourages public participation which fosters a sense of collective creativity.

The project began with gathering feedback and stories from residents through questionnaires, interviews, and community workshops. These responses have been transformed into nearly 200 hand-printed letterpress posters; each one capturing a unique perspective on what Peckham means to its residents. The peak of this effort will be a final exhibition, Peckham Perspective, which will take place on 15 - 22 August at Peckham Arches Gallery. 50% of the profits from the sales will be donated to Pecan, a local charity celebrating 35 years of fighting poverty in Southwark. The Peckham Perspective Project is a celebration of community spirit, a platform for local voices, and a step towards a more engaged and impactful artistic journey for me.

Future plans/projects?

I plan to transition from producing greeting cards to creating more impactful work that engages my Peckham community through letterpress printing. My future projects include hosting exhibitions, making connections with the local community, and expanding our collaborative engagement through my 'Printing with a Purpose' initiative.

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