Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Leslie Ross-Robertson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Leslie, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

One of the most significant projects I’ve had the privilege to work on exemplifies the powerful intersection of art and activism. Collaborating with artist Alison Saar on creating the “Rise” letterpress print, in partnership with L.A. Louver Gallery, stands out as a deeply meaningful endeavor for me.

The project began in mid-June 2020, amidst the pandemic and social justice protests. Alison approached me with the idea of creating a print to raise funds for local non-profit organizations dedicated to community activism and social justice. The timing and purpose of this collaboration resonated deeply with me, and I eagerly embraced the opportunity to contribute.

Our discussions about the print unfolded in the outdoor setting of my studio in South Los Angeles, with Alison occasionally joined by her remarkable mother, Betye Saar. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, we forged ahead with determination and creativity, fueled by our shared commitment to the cause.

The resulting print, “Rise”, featured a powerful and iconic female figure, symbolizing resilience and empowerment. We deliberately minimized the number of printing passes to streamline the process and reduce costs while ensuring the image retained its impactful essence. Alison’s bold use of color, captivating patterns, and imagery infused the print with undeniable vitality, captivating viewers and conveying our message with striking clarity. Through the L.A. Louvre Gallery, the print sold out within hours and the proceeds went toward assisting some incredible local non-profits in Los Angeles.

The collaborative nature of this project was both inspiring and humbling. Witnessing Alison’s creative process and her ability to challenge cultural norms through her art left a profound impression on me. Over three weeks, from initial discussions to the completion of the printing process, I was deeply moved by the opportunity to contribute my skills and resources to such a meaningful cause.

Notably, the “Rise” print and another collaborative work with Alison under Wavelength Press were featured in the Los Angeles Printmaking Society’s 22nd National Print Exhibition, marking a historic inclusion of letterpress in the show. This recognition underscored the significance of our collaboration and reaffirmed the transformative power of art in sparking dialogue and driving social change.

Participating in the creation of the “Rise” print was not only professionally rewarding but also personally fulfilling. It reaffirmed my belief in the potential of art to inspire meaningful action and create a positive impact within our communities.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am Leslie Ross-Robertson, and I founded Modern Optic in 2001—a letterpress design studio. Since then, I have been dedicated to honing the craft of letterpress, establishing my studio in the vibrant neighborhood of South Los Angeles. This creative endeavor emerged from my passion for modernism, contemporary art, and architecture, which has inspired me to fuse cutting-edge technology with the time-honored art form of letterpress printmaking. Embracing sustainability, I prioritize the use of eco-friendly materials in my printmaking process, while actively supporting social and environmental causes whenever possible. I have created two lines of stationery, printed on my cherished Vandercook SP-20 press, and I also create artwork to showcase the potential of letterpress through my artistic perspective.

I work to spark creativity and an entrepreneurial mindset within my community. By supporting artists and craftsmen through letterpress education, I hope to cultivate the next generation of visionary creators, fostering their talents and igniting their enthusiasm. I have created work for artists, architects, designers, and printmakers seeking distinctive and custom letterpress printing. I strive to print engaging and intricate designs that showcase the inherent beauty of the art. These creations resonate with individuals who hold a deep appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship embodied in printmaker’s artwork.

In 2012, I embarked on a new press with the establishment of Wavelength Press. This press is dedicated to fostering collaborations with contemporary artists to create special edition prints that push the boundaries of letterpress printmaking. Through this endeavor, I have had the privilege of working alongside esteemed artists including Nancy Buchanan, Lecia Dole-Recio, Drew Heitzler, Harsh Patel, Steve Roden, Alison Saar, Aram Saroyan, Brian Sharp, and Jonas Wood.

Each collaboration brings a unique and enriching experience as I delve into the creative practices of these talented artists. It is a great pleasure to learn from their expertise and gain insights into their artistic journeys. Together, we explore the possibilities of letterpress printmaking, experimenting with techniques, materials, and concepts to create unique works of art. Working with these exceptional artists is a constant source of inspiration and an opportunity to push the boundaries of what can be achieved with the letterpress medium. With each collaborative work, I strive to honor the unique vision and creative voice of the artist, allowing their ideas to come to life through the art of letterpress printing. The resulting prints are evidence to the power of collaboration and the fusion of artistic perspectives, creating works of art that resonate with authenticity, creativity, and craftsmanship.

Beyond the realm of my business, I am deeply committed to sharing my expertise and nurturing the talents of others. Through the offering of letterpress classes, I strive to ignite creativity and entrepreneurial spirit within my community. By empowering aspiring artists and craftsmen, I aspire to help shape the next generation of artistic visionaries, fostering their skills and igniting their passion for creation. These collaborations not only expand my artistic horizons but also contribute to the broader artistic landscape, bringing forth innovative and thought-provoking pieces that captivate viewers and spark meaningful dialogues.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a mission to introduce individuals to the art of letterpress printmaking and its relevance, thereby fostering the growth and vitality of the letterpress community. The craft of letterpress requires not only skill but also determination and creativity, making it a deeply rewarding pursuit.

Sustainability is at the heart of my practice, as I prioritize the use of eco-friendly materials and actively support social and environmental causes. Through Wavelength Press, I relish the collaborative process of working with other artists. It’s a rewarding experience to delve into their artistic processes and translate their work into the unique medium of letterpress, preserving the essence of their artistic style.

I take pride in using letterpress to advocate for causes that hold personal importance to me, making a positive impact through my art.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

What might not obvious to a viewer unfamiliar with letterpress, is the intricate fusion of mechanics and creativity inherent in my letterpress journey. The process isn’t just about applying ink to paper; it’s a meticulous dance between traditional printing techniques and modern technology. Upon their initial encounter with my work, many are surprised to learn it’s letterpress; the vibrant colors and intricate layers often lead them to believe it’s digitally printed. This realization deepens as they feel the tactile impression, recognizing it as a handmade piece.

My creative process involves digital tools like computers for initial designs, yet it seamlessly transitions into the tangible realm through the use of photopolymer plates—a contemporary twist on traditional methods. These plates allow for unparalleled detail and vibrant colors, achieved through multiple passes and careful layering on my Vandercook press. Understanding the marriage of these elements is crucial to appreciating the depth of my creative journey and the uniqueness of letterpress as an art form.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.modern-optic.com www.wavelengthpress.com
• Instagram: @modern_optic @wavelengthpress
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernopticletterpress/ https://www.facebook.com/wavelengthpress/

Image Credits
Feature photo of myself only, photo credit: Lens To Listings Media