24 Apr Dominique Coiffait’s Letterpress Residency: A Testament to Artistic Generosity
In the world of letterpress, there are moments that stand as milestones, marking the intersection of creativity, community, and generosity. Dominique Coiffait’s recent letterpress residency at the Perth Letterpress Workshop is one such moment—a vibrant testament to the power of artistic passion and the spirit of giving back.
Throughout the residency, Dom immersed himself in the intricate art of letterpress printing, a centuries-old technique that melds craftsmanship with creativity. He reflected later during the exhibition residency that he had “rediscovered my passion for print” and the residency had “revitalized my printmaking practice, evoking the sensation of returning to college after a prolonged hiatus…”
Watching him meticulously setting type to carefully choosing ink hues, every step in the process bore the mark of dedication and passion. The drying rack would fill each day. Dom’s dedication wasn’t merely confined to the technical aspects; Dom also shared their knowledge and skills generously with students and staff alike, fostering a rich environment of learning and creativity. His ‘SEEKING THE IMPERFECTIONS’ PRINT—PLAY exhibition at the end of the residency and launch during Perth Design Week 2024 was a thing of wonder!
However, his impact has now transcended the confines of the Perth Letterpress Workshop and benefits NM TAFE in a new way — A remarkable act of generosity: the donation of three exquisite prints to the Western Australian School of Art and Design’s (NM TAFE permanent collection). These prints, imbued with Dom’s unique style and vision, were accepted today by Gallery Central legend Predrag Delibasich (left), NM TAFE Gallery and Program Manager Soula Vouyoucalos-Veyradier (to the right of Dom) and Art Collections Coordinator, Gina Capes (far right).
Plus, additional workshop package
The significance of this donation goes beyond the three works donated to the NM TAFE collection. Dom included a ‘student workshop kit, which speaks volumes about the ethos of giving back and paying it forward — a belief that letterpress should not be confined to studios or galleries but should be accessible to all — inspiring future generations of artists and enthusiasts.
The workshop package will allow students to get ‘up close and personal’ and experience the tactile nature and epic colour arrangements present in Dom’s incredible prints.