Hatch Show Print in Nashville is renowned for its vibrant and historical letterpress posters. Among their many celebrated designs, the Triple Johnny Cash poster stands out, not just for its striking imagery but also for its unique and charming origin story. This poster is more than just a print; it’s a testament to Hatch Show Print’s legacy, their connection with the community, and a playful nod to pop art.
A Cub Scout Lesson Turns into a Poster Legend
The story of the Triple Johnny Cash poster began during a visit from a troop of cub scouts in the mid-1990s. Jim Sherraden, the shop’s manager at the time, was giving the scouts a lesson in “making ready,” a meticulous process in letterpress printing. This involves carefully adjusting type or photo plates with thin paper shims to achieve a perfect print and ensure proper alignment within the poster’s design.
As a staff member was printing a restrike of the classic Johnny Cash Show poster, inspiration struck. Jim playfully placed the Johnny Cash photoplate slightly off-center on the press. After running a print, he showed it to the cub scouts and asked for their opinion. The consensus was clear: Johnny Cash needed to move to the right on the poster.
In the mechanics of the press, moving right on the print meant shifting the plate to the left. Jim, in an engaging demonstration for the scouts, adjusted the plate, locked it securely, and ran the same print again. The result? Two Johnny Cash images side-by-side. This happy accident sparked an idea that quickly evolved.
From Double Vision to Triple Threat: The Poster’s Evolution
Not long after the initial double print, the design was taken a step further. A third Johnny Cash image was added, completing the now-iconic triple motif. To further enhance the visual impact, a solid gold background block was incorporated, making the poster even more eye-catching and distinctive.
This evolution transformed a simple printing demonstration into a beloved and enduring design within the Hatch Show Print catalog. The Triple Johnny Cash poster became not only a tribute to the “Man in Black” but also a celebration of the serendipitous moments and collaborative spirit that define Hatch Show Print. It’s a perfect example of how a hands-on experience and a bit of playful creativity can lead to something truly special and representative of the Nashville Hatch Show Print legacy.
Design Notes: Letterpress Craftsmanship
The Triple Johnny Cash Poster is a letterpress print, meticulously handcrafted in Nashville, Tennessee. Reflecting the traditional methods of Hatch Show Print, each poster is:
- Approximate Size: 14″ x 22″ (actual size may vary slightly)
- Print Method: Letterpress, showcasing the texture and depth unique to this printing technique.
- Presses Used: Printed on Vandercook SP-15, Universal III, or Miehle 29 presses, each contributing to the unique character of the print.
This poster is not just a piece of merchandise; it’s a piece of Nashville history, embodying the spirit of Hatch Show Print and the legendary Johnny Cash.
Alt text: Vibrant letterpress print featuring three side-by-side portraits of Johnny Cash in black ink against a rich gold background, showcasing the iconic Nashville Hatch Show Print style.
