welcome to type townsend studio:
where the past meets the present in a celebration of vintage typewriters and the stories they tell
Tyler Zwirtz is an artist, inventor, and avid collector whose passion for antique machinery began in 2008 with the purchase of his first typewriter, a Remington 5, while awing in an antique store. Over the past 15 years, Tyler's collection of typewriters has grown significantly, reflecting his deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and history of these machines. His journey has been driven by a love for the unique beauty and functionality of antique typewriters, which has inspired his creative endeavors and inventions.
In early 2024, after years of collecting and perfecting his craft, Tyler decided it was time to transition from buyer to seller. This realization came with the move to Port Townsend, where he acquired 150 typewriters and the beloved store, Type Townsend, from Shelley French. Thus, Type Townsend Studio was born, a place where Tyler can share his curated collection with fellow enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Tyler’s background is as diverse as his collection. He spent two vibrant years in Seattle, and before that, he lived in Colorado and his home state of Minnesota. Each place has shaped his journey, but Port Townsend is where he has chosen to establish his legacy.
Typewriter Knolled by Tyler Zwirtz
This artwork is a detailed exploration of typewriter mechanics, born from my years of collecting vintage typewriters and a curiosity about their intricate crafting process. Motivated by a deep love for vintage machinery and its engineering, I embarked on a journey to understand typewriters better.
After collecting for years, I found myself continually fascinated by the inner workings of these machines. One day, I decided to take apart a spare Smith Corona typewriter to satisfy my curiosity.
From that moment, I delved into an exhaustive study of various typewriters, appreciating every aspect from their intricate mechanics to their historical significance. Motivated by a desire to find beauty in mechanical craftsmanship, I spent countless hours collecting and studying typewriters. From this collection, a single typewriter was carefully chosen and repurposed into an artistic expression.
Through this piece, I invite viewers to appreciate the history and ingenuity of typewriters, paying tribute to their timeless appeal. Every component is meticulously showcased, reflecting my dedication to preserving the legacy of these iconic machines.