On the cliffs of Achill Island, specifically Dugort, lies a nest of cottages filled to the brim with art and artefacts from a life deeply studied by two fascinating characters who make up the team Franticham.
Francis Van Maele has been publishing books since the late 1970s and in 2000 founded what is now known as Red Fox Press. At a book fair in South Korea he met his match when he connected with Hyemee Kim, who produces art under the name Antic-Ham. The two share a deep love of art, printing and a unique view of the world that is evident the moment the threshold of Red Fox Press is crossed.
Walking through the door, the visitor is instantly met with an eclectic mix: worn-down religious statues and iconography, art collected from extensive travel, vintage portraits, antique and working Polaroid cameras. Then there’s the main draw: hundreds of books, which line the windowsills, tables and bookshelves. Published in-house, the subjects vary from Achill Sheep and a paper cup diary to collaborations between the late Manchán Magan, Antic-Ham and Red Fox Press; Dána Gránna and Sea Tamagotchi.
An additional cottage on site houses hundreds more Polaroid cameras of all shapes and sizes honouring Van Maele’s love of the instant art form.
RM Block
This space serves not just as a printing house but as a museum of quiet exploration and a tribute to the island they now call home. Together they have curated a small analogue oasis honouring the art of reflection, consideration and two lives well lived.
