Marie Oberkirsch
Photos provided by Marie Oberkirsch
Website: Central Print
Facebook: @centralprintstudios
Instagram: @centralprintstudios
Twitter: @centralprintstl
5(ish) Questions for is a chance to discover and learn about St. Louis Creatives, Community Champions, and, well, just interesting people in and around our city. It's a deep dive into what they love and where their passion lies. It's an opportunity for all of us to see our region from a different perspective. This written interview is a peek into their lives and their outlook on St. Louis.
Editors note: We collaborated with theSTL.com on a video about Central Print. Be sure to check it out!
Hi, Marie! Tell us a little about yourself…
I am Director of Central Print, a non-profit community printmaking studio in Old North St. Louis. Printmaking and textile design are my passions. I especially appreciate vintage machines and traditional methods of making which inspire me to combine them together in new ways.
How did you get started?
My interest in the arts was sparked while making crafts with my grandmother and working art fairs with my parents. I saw how people are brought together through art making and embarked on a career of arts education and non-profit work.
What impact are you making, or hope to make?
We are working in the community to harness the power of printmaking as a means for self-expression. Through educational programs and by providing access to equipment and facilities we support neighbors, printmakers and artists in their creative work. We honor the process and its history by hosting tours and lectures to share the knowledge of letterpress printing and its importance in how we communicate today.
What are some of the most important things that our audience can do to support you?
Take a class at our studio here in OId North and bring a friend. Attend a fundraising event like Print Lingo in November where we play bingo to win amazing letterpress printed posters. Spend an afternoon volunteering with us. You may even learn how to print promotional flyers on the press. Make a donation in support of our educational programs and help us provide free programs that enrich our community.
What is the history/scene/legacy of your industry in STL?
There is rich print history in St. Louis and many of the industries buildings can be found in the architectural landscape downtown. The type foundries that once stood where the Arch rises on the riverfront have been replaced but the type and presses they made are still in use in our studio today. A big part of what we do is preserving the equipment and presses that hold an important place in our history. Bringing contemporary printers into the mix with new ideas and content to share brings history, printing know-how, and the importance of artistic self-expression full circle.
What is a favorite neighborhood or favorite thing about the place you live or work?
When I began working in Old North St. Louis I quickly became enchanted by the neighborhood. I joined the Community Garden, moved to the neighborhood, and purchased a home that will be an ongoing rehab project. I’m invested in the community and enjoy the company of my neighbors and our shared interest in St. Louis’ history and architecture.
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