Typewriter art has a long history. The first typewriter was invented in 1843, and the first manufactured machine appeared in 1870. The first known ‘artwork’ using type appeared in 1898. It was a ‘mechanical drawing’ of a butterfly by English stenographer, Flora Stacey.
There have been many typewriter artists since, such as American Paul Smith who created all his artwork while living with Cerebral Palsy.
One of the latest in this line of typewriter artists is James Cook, a college student, who recently showed his work at Trinity Buoy Wharf on the Limmo Peninsula in Poplar overlooking the Thames, the O2 arena in Greenwich and the Isle of Dogs.
During my visit to the exhibition, I spoke discussed some of James’ most recent work with him. Here is my introduction:
And here is the interview:
Hidden messages in typewriter art were often part of the work of the ‘concrete poets’ active from the 1950s to the 1970s. James told me that he has continued that tradition, and that there are words and messages embedded in some of his work. I must admit I saw the odd individual word but could not find any hidden messages.
The subjects of James’ portraits are instantly recognisable, and the panoramas of local buildings include astonishing attention to detail.
The artist’s latest news and events are available on James Cook Artwork website, and you can book visits to his studio. He is also planning a new exhibition for the summer.
Photos by Mike Butler