In this episode of Printing’s Alive, Warren Werbitt and Ben Glazier explore the intersection of print, design, and space exploration. Ben discusses his journey from Xerox connections to designing iconic stamps for Stephen Hawking and NASA, including ones that landed on the moon. They cover the creative process, approval challenges, and collaborations with figures like Nicole Stott. The discussion includes the evolution of stamp usage, digital printing, and printers’ roles in client Education. Ben highlights the importance of engaging design education and UV printing’s potential. The episode wraps up with insights on balancing passion projects with professional work.
(0:00) Introduction and guest background
(1:04) Connection through Xerox and previous podcast
(1:40) Designing and presenting Stephen Hawking stamps
(2:37) Work with the Stephen Hawking Foundation and Isle of Man Government
(4:31) Meeting Stephen Hawking and continued collaboration with Lucy Hawking
(8:03) Designing stamps for NASA and moon landing anniversaries
(10:05) Getting into stamp design through the Worshipful Company of Boyers
(13:46) Approval process for stamp designs
(16:36) Stamps landing on the moon with Chris Stott’s mission
(17:18) Collaboration with NASA astronaut Nicole Stott
(19:11) Recent stamp set “Oceans to the Stars”
(21:42) Philosophical discussion on the overview effect
(22:33) Displaying stamp designs at Piccadilly Circus
(24:12) Transition from design to space projects
(25:46) Designing stamps for the RAF anniversary
(28:38) Evolution and future of stamp usage
(30:38) Digital printing and customized stamps
(32:50) Effectiveness of hand-addressed marketing
(35:02) Experience at NASA’s Mission Control
(39:22) Encouraging students to challenge design briefs
(44:08) Importance of engaging teaching in design education
(45:44) Current trends in print embellishments
(49:22) Importance of engaging designers in print
(51:53) Printers’ role in educating clients
(54:27) Expanding creative possibilities with UV printing
(57:10) Collaboration between printers and designers
(1:02:07) Passion projects and work-life balance
(1:06:17) Inspiration from the space industry
(1:07:27) Embracing new skills and adaptability in print
(1:08:17) Final words: Challenge the brief and have fun