What was really brilliant was that Aedes managed to obtain such great support from manufacturers/suppliers in that machines were provided free of charge as were inks, varnishes and substrates. They had two machines on the stand – one screen printing machine and one digital. The digital machine was used to demonstrate the initial preparation and printing of the original artwork with the screen machine being used to apply a special effect varnish in accordance with the Sensations principles.
However, more than this, two printing schools provided students to participate in this activity throughout the event. Additionally, one of their member companies provided two workers during the days of the "print shop activity". But for me what was a really fantastic idea is that the workers had disabilities. In the UK we say disability is no handicap and these workers not only demonstrated that people with disabilities can be as effective and competent as able bodied people but it gave them a wonderful opportunity to be part of an exciting event, something that under normal circumstances they would not be able to do. By all accounts it was successful all round for Aedes, the company, the "sponsors", the students and the volunteer workers.
So the idea of the stand being a continuous workshop worked well and of course Aedes were able to show what services they as an Association can provide to members as well as demonstrating how different print processes can be combined for maximum effect.
The technical coordination was made by our good friend and frequent FESPA awards judge, Josep Tobella of AEDES with great support from Fira Barcelona, Salesianos de Sarriá, Escuela Edra de Rubí, Icaria Graficas, Insegraf , Roland, Torraspapel, Sefar, Kiwo, Marabú and Merck.
Well done Pablo and all those involved in this tremendous initiative.
Best regards,
Chris Smith
