London Arches’ ‘Marilyn, The Exhibition’ offers a meticulously curated collection of 250 personal objects – gowns, letters, photos and more – telling the extraordinary story of a woman who went from foster child, to factory worker, pin-up model, symbol of the sexual revolution, and finally award-winning method actor, before her death at just 36 years old.
What was produced?
St Neots-based wide-format printer Moss UK was engaged by events promoter Kilimanjaro Live to produce a range of graphics for the exhibition that would live up to the superstar’s glamour.
Over 30 clear and coloured, intricately cut self-adhesive panels were installed throughout the exhibition, guiding visitors to artefacts framed by four huge 3x3m black-back canvas panels and around 30 3mm aluminium composite panels. Each exhibit was detailed in text on over 220 caption boards printed on heritage conservation board.
What did the job entail?
Moss’ SwissQprint Nyala 4 printed most of the work, producing boards and vinyl rolls with help from a Canon Colorado 1650, while the firm’s 5.24m Durst P5 500 handled the canvas panels, with panels and fabric cut on a Zünd G3.
Fitting the print to Honext carbon-negative, recycled board, a team of six installers from Mitre and Mondays worked swiftly over just a few days to get the exhibition ready.
What challenges were overcome?
The installation took close collaboration between Moss’ team and its exhibition partners. Scaffolding was rigged up across the venue and quickly moved, as installers fitted panels and curators carefully set up each exhibit after them.
Sustainability was a key concern for each party in the busy project, and Moss worked closely with exhibition designer Studioshaw and the installers to get the best results from the innovative Honext board, which holds a distinct texture, carefully sampling the vinyl and fabric to get the right result.
“Working with a range of materials and collaborating with partners across London’s newest exhibition, performance and culture destination made this an unforgettable project,” said Rob Kershaw, business development manager at Moss UK.
“From our initial sampling and testing through to the complexities of the final installation, this has been an iconic project for us and we are delighted to have played our part.”
What was the feedback?
Moss’ meticulous approach certainly pleased its clients.
“The attention to detail Moss provides came across in every step,” said Liz Koravos, managing director at Arches London Bridge.
“Their expertise was invaluable in transforming our amazing venue and providing our guests with a glimpse into the life of the one and only Marilyn Monroe.” Do you have a Killer App? We are interested in special, difficult or simply fabulous print jobs of all shapes and sizes. Email printweek.newsdesk@markallengroup.com.
Do you have a Killer App? We are interested in special, difficult or simply fabulous print jobs of all shapes and sizes. Email printweek.newsdesk@markallengroup.com.
