Danila Rygovskiy This presentation examines the history of hot metal typesetting in Estonia and its current preservation within a museum context. It approaches this topic through the lens of fluid technology, as introduced by Marianne de Laet and Annemarie Mol.
A “fluid machine” is characterized by its lack of strict boundaries, designed to be adapted by its users. In contrast, other mechanisms are more rigid, relying heavily on specific spare parts and specialized knowledge. This rigidity is particularly evident in machine typesetting technology, where print shops needed to maintain constant communication with the manufacturer for technical support, training, matrices, and more. Today, this extensive infrastructure has become obsolete. However, there is a growing interest in reviving this technology, as typesetting machines are being utilized by some enthusiasts, art studios, and museums. Does this shift imply that the technology has become more fluid, given that keeping it operational now depends on salvaging existing machines and using creative problem-solving? Furthermore, what is the role of these technologies in contemporary society? Can we draw comparisons to the Arts and Crafts movement? I aim to address these questions in the context of the Monotype project, which encompasses historical research on machine typesetting in Estonia and its application in artistic creation.
Literature
- de Laet, M., & Mol, A. (2000). The Zimbabwe Bush Pump: Mechanics of a Fluid Technology. Social Studies of Science 30 (2), 225-263