Acclaimed typographer Alan Kitching returns to Watford to support local students

Renowned typographer Alan Kitching has returned to the college in Watford, where he first began teaching in the 1960s, to help support the next generation of young creatives.

Graphic design students from West Herts College were recently mentored by Kitching, as part of a new letterpress project celebrating the town’s artistic heritage.

The Calendar Design Project saw students explore experimental typography, whilst learning from industry specialists. 

Inspired by Kitching's work, each page drew influence from the typographer’s bold style – with the letters of each month’s name used as the core visual element.

Students used traditional letterpress and laser-cut techniques and combined this with their digital skills. 

The project ended with a competition judged by Alan Kitching, who selected the best designs. The chosen artworks for each month were collated into a final calendar, which the students then sold to raise money for charity. 

Isaac, who designed the December page, said: “I’m definitely very happy that I got picked. The fact it’s going to be made into a real calendar is important because I can put it on my CV or say when I’m going to university that this is something I’ve done.”

Ella, who designed the pages for June and September, added: “It’s nice to be recognised for your work and get praised for the things you do well, but it’s also good for feedback for what I can do better in the future.”

Alan Kitching mentoring students at West Herts College (Credit: West Herts College)

Alan Kitching began his teaching journey in Watford in the 1960s, and is one of the world’s leading practitioners in letterpress typography and printmaking.

He is best known for his expressive use of wood and metal letterforms. His work has featured in galleries and magazines across the globe.

The influences of Kitching’s unique artistic style can be traced back to his time working as a technician at Watford College of Technology (now West Herts) – where he met innovative typographic designers and teachers, such as Anthony Froshaug and established a printing workshop. 

Commenting on the project, Alan Kitching said: "Working on this calendar was a real pleasure. A chance to bring traditional letterpress values into a contemporary context, with care, collaboration and a deep respect for the printed word. The calendars look fantastic. I’m very pleased with how they’ve turned out."