Signal-Return

Signal-Return is a nonprofit educational organization based in Detroit, Michigan, with a focus on preserving and teaching traditional letterpress printing. It aims to foster a vibrant community center for art, craft, design, and collaboration.

History and Mission

Founded in 2011, Signal-Return is dedicated to reviving letterpress printing in Detroit. The organization recognizes the significant historical impact of the printing press on communication, which aligns with its mission to enhance the city's cultural landscape through this venerable art form.

Programs and Activities

Signal-Return offers a variety of programs and activities, including hands-on arts workshops and an Open Studio program. It partners with various educational institutions, from elementary schools to universities, and collaborates with other arts and culture organizations. The organization's space functions as a community hub where artists and beginners can engage with letterpress printing techniques.

Artistic Collaborations

Signal-Return has been involved in innovative art projects, such as "We exChange: An Assemblage of Possibilities." This collaborative project brought together visual and literary artists to explore themes of change, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Inspired by Octavia Butler's writing, the project used an adapted form of the surrealist game "Exquisite Corpse," fostering dialogue and creativity among artists.

Funding

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Signal-Return relies on financial support from individual contributors and grants from foundations and government agencies to sustain its educational programs and public exhibitions.

Specialty Services

Signal-Return provides specialty letterpress printing services for independent artists, nonprofit organizations, and businesses. Using vintage printing presses and extensive collections of wood and metal type, they create customized prints and posters tailored to their clients' needs.