HOUSTON – For more than 40 years, The Printing Museum was a beloved institution in Houston.
When the museum closed its doors, the printmaking community faced an uncertain future. Instead, what could have been a major loss became the beginning of something new.
Red Bird Press, an organization and studio in Houston’s East End, was founded after artists, educators and volunteers came together to save historic presses, type cabinets and equipment from the museum. With only six days to clear out a fully operational print museum, dozens of community members stepped up to help move the equipment into storage and later into its permanent home.
Founded by printmaker and educator Lauren Christlieb, Red Bird Press officially opened in September 2024 and offers workshops, memberships, private events and hands-on learning opportunities for everyone from beginners to professional artists.
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Christlieb holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas at Dallas and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Houston, where she has also taught printmaking. She focuses on creating a welcoming, accessible space where artists of all backgrounds can explore and experience traditional printmaking.
Today, the studio serves as a hub for creativity, education and collaboration while preserving traditional printmaking techniques for future generations. Through the studio’s nonprofit initiative, Red Bird Nest for Book Arts and Print, the organization supports scholarships, community programming and expanded access to printmaking throughout Houston—making its service accessible to everyone while reducing financial barriers.
You can learn traditional printmaking today by visiting the studio at 708 Telephone Rd., Suite C, in Houston’s East End. The studio is open to all ages. This summer, you can enroll in courses, including Letterpress, Bookbinding 101, and Relief. Register at redbirdpresshtx.org/courses.
For more information about Red Bird Press, check out www.redbirdpresshtx.org.
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