Graphic Matters’ Koppermaandagprent 2026 focuses on craftsmanship, experimentation and the social power of typography. In this third edition, the independent print aligns with the annual theme CHARACTERS and explores how letters convey stories, identity and change.
Koppermaandag is a centuries-old tradition dating back to the fifteenth century. Printers celebrate this day on the first Monday after Epiphany. Apprentices and fellow craftsmen made a copperplate print especially for this occasion: a free proof without a client or commercial purpose, intended to showcase craftsmanship, typographical knowledge and technical skills. The emphasis was on experimentation, play and research.
Since 2023, Graphic Matters and NPN Drukkers have continued this tradition with a contemporary interpretation. In 2026, for the third time, they present a new Koppermaandagprent, underlining the importance of creation, testing and research in graphic design. For this edition, they invited American designer Tré Seals (Vocal Type Co.) and studio Civilisation.
CHARACTERS: Voices in Type
The Koppermaandagprent 2026 is linked to the CHARACTERS: Voices in Type project, which brings together history, design and social change. It is inspired by the protest for the rehabilitation of Surinamese writer, resistance fighter and anti-colonial activist Anton de Kom. Tré Seals designed the VTC WIJ typeface especially for this project, based on Dutch post-war protest banners and action typography. This typeface gives De Kom’s message of resistance, solidarity and freedom a contemporary and visible form.
Graphic Matters, Vocal Type Co. and Civilization realised several projects around this theme. For example, a large-scale typographic mural with the text ‘Vandaag vrij altijd vrij’ (Free today, free forever) appeared in Breda, alongside publications and presentations in which typography is used as a means of connecting history, activism and design.
The Koppermaandagprent 2026 not only celebrates the revaluation of print and craftsmanship, but also shows how graphic design can contribute to social dialogue. Just as individual letters form words, creators form a movement. You can order your copy here.
Photography Koppermaandagprent: Joost van Asch
Photography mural: Edwin Wiekens
