In the digital age, where art is often created with the swipe of a finger or the click of a mouse, Keira Rathbone stands out as an artist who embraces the tactile and nostalgic charm of the typewriter. Rathbone, who has been creating typewriter art for over two decades, will be showcasing her unique talent at Falmouth Library on 10 May. There, she will be doing live drawings, offering visitors the opportunity to walk away with a personalized piece of art that captures their essence in a matter of minutes.

Rathbone's journey with typewriter art began about 22 years ago when she realized that she could better express herself through visual art rather than words. "When I had the typewriter in front of me, I wanted to type, but I didn't know what to say, so I just started pressing," she recalled. This spontaneous action led to a discovery: rather than seeing a row of letters, she saw shapes and textures. "That's when the characters started looking like shapes and textures to me," she explained. This unique perspective transformed the typewriter from a writing tool into a powerful artistic medium.

The typewriter, according to Rathbone, is more than just a vintage device; it is a "time-travelling device" that connects the past, present, and future. "It almost felt like a time-travelling device," she said, describing how the typewriter takes people back to a bygone era while capturing them in the present moment. This experience, she noted, often leaves a lasting impression on those who witness her art in action.

Rathbone's typewriter art is not just about creating images; it is about capturing the essence of a person or a moment. Each drawing takes about 10 minutes to complete, and the result is a piece of work that is deeply personal and unique. "People can have a piece of work that's about them... the essence of them, sort of boiled down to minimal characters," she said. This minimalist approach allows Rathbone to distill complex emotions and identities into simple yet profound visual statements.

The event at Falmouth Library, scheduled from 10:00 BST to 17:00, promises to be an engaging and interactive experience. Visitors will have the opportunity to watch Rathbone create her art in real-time and take home a piece that is uniquely theirs. This personal connection is a hallmark of Rathbone's work, as she believes that art should be accessible and meaningful to everyone.

Rathbone's typewriter art is a testament to the enduring appeal of analog tools in a digital world. In an era where technology often dominates creative expression, her work reminds us of the tactile and sensory experiences that traditional tools can offer. The clacking of keys, the scent of ink, and the physical act of pressing letters onto paper all contribute to a rich and immersive artistic experience.

Moreover, Rathbone's art challenges the notion that modern technology is the only way to create compelling and relevant art. By using a typewriter, she demonstrates that creativity can thrive with the simplest of tools. Her work invites viewers to slow down, to appreciate the process of creation, and to find beauty in the imperfections and textures that digital art often lacks.

The typewriter, in Rathbone's hands, becomes a bridge between different generations and artistic traditions. It connects the precision and craftsmanship of the past with the innovative spirit of the present. Each keystroke is a deliberate choice, a mark that cannot be easily erased or undone. This permanence adds a layer of authenticity and vulnerability to her work, making each piece a true reflection of the moment it was created.

Rathbone's upcoming event at Falmouth Library is not just an opportunity to witness her art; it is a chance to engage with a living piece of history. By participating in this event, visitors will become part of a larger narrative that celebrates the intersection of art, technology, and human connection. They will leave with more than just a drawing; they will leave with a piece of themselves, captured in the timeless medium of typewriter art.

Keira Rathbone's typewriter art is a powerful reminder of the enduring appeal of traditional tools and the importance of personal expression in art. Her work invites us to slow down, to appreciate the tactile and sensory experiences of creation, and to find beauty in the simple act of pressing keys. As she prepares to share her talent at Falmouth Library, Rathbone continues to inspire and captivate audiences with her unique and evocative art.