Pink House press

Pink House press is a duo composed by Ersi Varveri and Gijs Waterschoot, currently working between Syros (Greece) and Antwerp (Belgium). PHp underlines the importance and urgency of printed matter as a possible medium and vehicle to generate space and to create dialogues that touch upon topics such as the development of public discourse through artistic practices and the publication as a portable-hospitable artist-run space. It manifests that publications are low budget and democratic artworks that everyone can buy or exchange.

Originating in the Pink House (2017–2020), Ersi and Gijs started publishing their own printed matter (magazines, zines, posters) under the name Pink House press, after acquiring their own photocopy machine (2018). The photocopier served as “the oven” of the house where they “baked the bread” of this place on a daily basis, placing self-publishing into the center of their activities and programming, and transforming printing into a process-based and collective practice.

In 2020, they moved out of their base due to the demolition of the house. Since then, they have moved to Syros (Ersi’s hometown) with the idea to continue their practice and to rethink the model through which they operate. While they are in the process of developing their new space on the island, they are shifting their attention towards more sustainable and self-sufficient practices, inspired by self-build, natural farming, wild plants, and water harvesting.

Since they don’t have a photocopy machine anymore, they produce their publications with a pot on the fire! They make edible editions from plants and herbs they collect, and from jams made of fruits that grow in their garden.

PHp is operating as an independent organization (without external funding), supported by a network of friends, based on peer relationships, and with a very strong sense of sharing and contribution.