iBestTravel

Your Gateway to the Best Travel Experiences

Explore the Art and History of Hatch Show Print

Michael Montes05 mins

Hatch Show Print: A Legacy in Custom Music Posters

For over 138 years, the renowned Nashville print shop known as Hatch Show Print has been crafting outstanding posters for iconic names in the music industry. With a unique blend of artistry and craftsmanship, Hatch Show Print continues to be a pivotal player in the world of promotional printing.

The Art of Printmaking

The intricate process at Hatch Show Print involves the careful transfer of ink from wooden and metal blocks onto paper, meticulously one color at a time. This time-honored technique creates vibrant and eye-catching posters that convey the celebratory essence of live music.

The pressure of the press transfers ink from the blocks of type and imagery to the paper.
The pressure of the press transfers ink from the blocks of type and imagery to the paper, one color at a time, one piece of paper at a time.

A Glimpse into History

In the mid-20th century, Hatch Show Print made its mark by printing posters for local businesses, including RV dealers who employed music stars to promote their trailers. This innovative approach not only highlighted the versatility of the print shop but also underscored the influence of music in various facets of culture and commerce.

In the mid-20th century, Hatch Show Print printed posters for a local RV dealer.
In the mid-20th century, Hatch Show Print printed posters for a local RV dealer who hired music stars to “christen” the trailers.

Innovative Techniques

The shop boasts a remarkable archive of imagery carved into wooden blocks, showcasing various designs ranging from musicians to equipment. This rich collection serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of printmaking.

Imagery is carved into wooden blocks.
Imagery is carved into wooden blocks. The shop has a vast archive of blocks featuring images such as “man playing bass” and “girl & guy w/ piano.”

Significant Contributions

Among the numerous posters produced by Hatch Show Print, one notable example is a 2009 design for a Dolly Parton show in London. This poster exemplifies their artistic approach and has become part of their historical portfolio.

This 2009 poster for a Dolly Parton show.
This 2009 poster for a Dolly Parton show in London is among the many posters the shop has produced since it was founded in 1879.

Modern-Day Impact

Since its relocation in 2013 to a new spot beside the Country Music Hall of Fame, Hatch Show Print continues to thrive under the care of Gaylord Entertainment, which donated the print shop to the museum in the 1990s. Their commitment to preserving the art of printing ensures Hatch Show Print’s impact on future generations.

The shop moved in 2013 to its current spot next to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
The shop moved in 2013 to its current spot next to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Gaylord Entertainment donated Hatch to the museum in the 1990s.

Conclusion

Hatch Show Print stands as a timeless monument to the intersection of art, music, and culture. The resilience and creativity displayed at this print shop not only celebrate Nashville’s music history but also exemplify the art of traditional printmaking, ensuring that the legacy continues to flourish in the years to come.


Related Posts

Back To Top