Artist Feature: Robert Rusch + Hannah Lin

Today, we're heading to Buffalo, NY, to explore the vibrant RISO world of Robert and Hannah at LIBBY Projects + Editions. This creative studio specializes in producing art editions, apparel, and designed objects, with collaboration at the heart of every project. LIBBY isn’t just a studio—it’s a creative partner, fully engaged in each endeavor from start to finish.

Experienced RISO printers, Robert and Hannah introduced the SF5130 duplicator to LIBBY in 2023. With a palette of eight RISO ink colors, the studio continues to produce stunning work in its bright and inspiring space. Take a look below!

LIBBY Projects + Editions Photo Credit: Michael Chernoff

Studio/ Company Name: LIBBY Projects + Editions

How many drums are you running and what colors?: Currently running eight colors, Scarlet, Kelly, Medium Blue, Flo Pink, Violet, Orange, and Black and hope to add more in the future

Model of Machine: RISO SF5130

LIBBY Projects is now located in The Guild @980, right above Action Reuse, a nonprofit that salvages reclaimed construction materials and architectural details. There’s a DIY spirit running through this building that resonates with what I do—people wandering in for salvaged materials often end up exploring the artist studios, finding a connection between craft, labor, and the tangible quality of printed media.

I believe we should slow down, spend less time online, and reconnect with the physical world. There’s something special about engaging with a real community—whether it’s through printing, gathering, or just being present in shared creative spaces.

How long have you been printing with RISO?: I've been making prints on RISO for about 9 years and purchased my own machine to start my studio in 2023.

What advice would you give to someone looking to get started with RISO printing?: RISO printing is a fantastic medium with a relatively low-cost entry point. Before diving in, I recommend testing it out by creating prints with other RISO shops to explore its unique possibilities. Along the way, you’ll encounter quirks and challenges inherent to the process—but embrace them! Learning to work with these idiosyncrasies, rather than against them is key.

Buffalo’s art scene has been picking up momentum over the last few years—there’s an energy in the air. Organizations like the Buffalo Institute for Contemporary Art (BICA) have played a huge role in fostering that growth. BICA supported my studio through a Generator Fund grant, which helped me acquire equipment and host public open studios where people can learn about screen printing and risograph printing firsthand.

Before LIBBY Projects had its own space, I was deeply involved in BICA School—a community of artists that gathered to discuss art, critique work, and build connections. Some of the friendships I made there continue to be a part of the studio today, with fellow artists stopping by to print zines, show posters, and apparel for their own projects.

What is your favorite RISO ink color to print with and why?: Flo pink is absolutely the crowd favorite for good reason but recently I've been really into violet especially on light grey and off-white paper.

What project have you created on your riso that you are most proud of?: ’m incredibly proud of my first zine project, featuring the drawings and photographs of artist Ryan Huff. Taking on this project independently came with a steep learning curve, but it was an invaluable experience that taught me so much about the process of publishing.
https://libby.studio/collections/shop/products/sharpener

Anything else you would like the world to know about yourself (your inspiration, what you do with your empty riso ink tubes, what you had for lunch) here is the spot:: My studio is located on the third floor of an industrial building with a broken freight elevator—so every piece of equipment, from the RISO printer to the screen printing carousel and conveyor dryer, had to be carried up the stairs by hand. Talk about a workout—Phew!

Name another risograph printer whose studio space or work inspires you: Can Can Press out of Mexico City!