Type-In: Typewriting in the Neo-Analog Age

Want to take a break from the digital world? Join us at the Noble Maritime Collection as we host a Type-In! Organized by writer Kathryn Carse and Michael Ardito, owner of Hometown Business Machines, the event invites you to disengage from the distractions of digital devices and experience the analog simplicity of the typewriter. In addition to different models and generations of typewriters to use, the typewriter of artist John Noble will be on display. Bryan Kravitz, founder and co-owner of Philly Typewriter, will kick off the event at 12:30 with a short talk about the history of typewriters and their appeal today. After the discussion, you’ll be welcomed to choose your own adventure. Multiple typewriters will be provided – standard and portable manual machines as well as the IBM Selectric which offers a large font size. You can head right to the typewriters to tap out a poem, a letter, or just to hear the clickety-clack on the keys. You are also encouraged to find inspiration and follow prompts in the museum’s galleries, including the images and sea creatures of the Oceanus exhibit, family activities on the second floor, or the archival objects and photos in the Writing Room. Have a typewriter stashed in the back of a closet or up in the attic? Bring it along no matter what shape it is in. Ardito, an expert in repair and reconditioning typewriters, will evaluate its condition and provide insight into the history and use of the machine. Typewriter poet Marina Gasparyan, will also be on hand to compose a poem with you from 2 to 4 p.m. Just be sure not to miss the speed typing competition at 3:00. Each participant will get a chance to type out a short excerpt and see who can accurately type the piece the fastest. Winner will receive a small prize! This event is for all ages 6 and older. Fun for families and kids! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Typewriting in the Neo Analog Age is made possible by a DCLA Art Fund Grant from Staten Island Arts, with public funding from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.