Letterpress By The Bay Brings Vintage Printmaking to Life in Historic St Andrews - Voting Is Open Now!

PANAMA CITY, FL  – Bay County Coastal is proud to present the 5th Annual Letterpress by the Bay exhibit, hosted by the Historic St. Andrews Waterfront Partnership at the Panama City Publishing Company Museum. Running from June 28 through August 2, 2025, the exhibit features handcrafted letterpress prints submitted by artists from across the country, celebrating both the legacy and innovation of this timeless medium.

A free public reception and awards ceremony will be held on Saturday, July 19, from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. Awards include 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place, as well as Printer’s Choice, Judge’s Category, and People’s Choice. The ceremony will be live-streamed on the Bay County Coastal Facebook page.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibit during regular museum hours and vote for their favorite piece in the People’s Choice category. Voting began June 24 and will remain open through Friday, July 18 at 5:00 PM.

Submissions were accepted throughout the year, drawing in artists who blend traditional techniques with modern themes. During the judging period from June 24 to July 18, two Jurors will evaluate entries anonymously based on craftsmanship, originality, and impact. Jurors also have the option to introduce a unique Judge’s Category for standout work that defies conventional classification. Finalist works will be on display throughout the exhibition, offering a vibrant cross-section of contemporary letterpress expression. 

Award recipients will receive the George West Award for 1st Place ($300), Lillian West Award for 2nd Place ($200), Buddy West Award for 3rd Place ($100), along with non-monetary honors for Printer’s Choice, People’s Choice, and Judge’s Choice. 

The Panama City Publishing Company Museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 1:00 to 5:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 1134 Beck Ave, Panama City, FL 32401. Guests of all ages are invited to enjoy the exhibit, cast their votes, and experience the enduring art of letterpress in a modern creative context.