This project looks at the significance of typography in Birr, from shop signage to the tradition of printing in the town. Birr is the only town in County Offaly which has a printing tradition dating from the late eighteenth century with a printworks and bookseller in the square. 
This project links with Brendan Moon, retired Birr signwriter to trace the history of sign writing in the town. Brendan will record audio of his sign writing story as well as gathering visual material from over the years.  This will be compiled into a short film, or a stand-alone audio piece.  
 This project will research  the history of printing and shop signage, connecting with local business owners and Offaly History.  Working with classes in 2 Primary Schools the children will design an alphabet of varied letters taking inspiration from old and current shop signage. These letters will be printed to cover blocks that will form an interactive installation for a young audience.
The second part of the project is for 10 local and locally connected artists, chosen through an Open Call to work with Limerick Printmakers to design and print an alphabet based on the researched typography of Birr.  These relief printing blocks will be used for workshops during Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival to create text for a paste up wall. Workshops will be facilitated to explore Cyrillic and other scripts, and create an exhibition of archive photographs.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.