Riso Revival

Bolton Contemporary CIC’s Riso Revival is a community print project funded by Culture Bolton and Bolton CVS. The project was developed to make creative activity more accessible, social and inclusive by bringing Risograph printing into the heart of Bolton as a shared resource for local people.

At its core, Riso Revival uses printmaking, zine-making and collaborative publishing to bring people together, build confidence and create opportunities for self- expression. Through a programme of workshops, drop in sessions and supported creative activity, participants were invited to experiment with image-making, text, collage and print in a welcoming environment. The project particularly aimed to engage people who may face barriers to accessing the arts, including isolated adults, carers, people with SEND, and others who benefit from informal, supportive creative spaces.

As well as introducing participants to the distinctive qualities of Risograph printing, Riso Revival focused on wellbeing, connection and local voice. It offered opportunities for people to share stories, ideas and experiences through collectively produced printed outcomes such as zines, posters and artist publications. In doing so, the project helps to foster a stronger sense of belonging by celebrating Bolton’s communities through creative collaboration.

The project also supported skills development by giving participants, volunteers and emerging creatives hands-on experience in print processes, design thinking and community arts practice. Alongside its social impact, Riso Revival contributed to Bolton Contemporary CIC’s wider mission of making fine art and creative production accessible to everyone, while building a sustainable local culture of shared making and publishing.