The Real Bloomington Show

Welcome to The Real Bloomington Show with Jeremy Goodrich. In our first episode, we sit down with Alexander Landerman, local printmaker, IU educator, and Bloomington's unofficial "Poster Boy". We talk about finding his place in Bloomington's music scene, making art accessible to everyone, and the creative process behind his woodblock prints. We also explore the story behind the Real Bloomington podcast artwork and why handmade art still matters in the age of AI.

Discover more stories from Bloomington at therealbloomington.com.

It was a way that I could be involved in the music scene."

Alexander shares how creating concert posters became his way of participating in Bloomington's music scene, despite not being a musician himself. He talks about his first poster project and how his childhood love of drawing eventually developed into a creative career. Jeremy and Alexander also explore the role of encouragement, practice, and support in developing artistic talent.

"Accessibility is the core of my work."

Alexander explains how his artistic style evolved into the bold, playful designs he's known for today, and how the limitations of woodblock printing helped shape that style. He walks Jeremy through the printing process and discusses his frequent use of animals and natural imagery to make his artwork relatable. He also shares why keeping his prints affordable and accessible is so important to him.

"People aren't just buying the art, they're buying into you a little bit."

Alexander takes listeners behind the scenes of his creative process, from initial sketches to finished prints, and shares how he approaches working with clients. He also explains the inspiration behind the Real Bloomington podcast artwork and the challenge of capturing the character of Bloomington in one design. Finally, Jeremy and Alexander discuss AI, authenticity, and why handmade artwork continues to hold value in an increasingly digital world.

Alexander Landerman is a Bloomington-based graphic designer, printmaker, and educator specializing in hand-printed concert and event posters. He teaches graphic design and manages the letterpress studio at Indiana University, where he earned his MFA in Printmaking. Combining traditional techniques with modern design tools, Alexander creates custom posters for touring bands, nonprofits, and community organizations. His work has been exhibited nationally and internationally.

• Real Bloomington Website: therealbloomington.com

• Alexander Landerman's Website: https://alexanderlanderman.com/

• Alexander on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexanderlanderman/

• Real Bloomington on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRealBloomington/

Special thanks to Alexander Landerman for taking the time to share his story, creative process, and love for Bloomington's arts community with us!

Enjoyed this episode? Here's how you can support Real Bloomington:

• SUBSCRIBE to Real Bloomington on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

• RATE & REVIEW the show! It helps more people discover us.

• SHARE this episode with a friend or someone who loves Bloomington.

• JOIN the Real Bloomington Show Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and being part of the Real Bloomington community. We truly appreciate your support!

Until next time!

Topics Discussed: Bloomington Indiana, Bloomington arts and culture, Bloomington music scene, local artists, concert posters, woodblock printing, printmaking, graphic design, Indiana University, handmade art, and AI in creativity.

What makes Bloomington, Indiana, such a special place? Is it the history, the people, the culture, or something more?

Welcome to the Real Bloomington Show, a podcast hosted by Jeremy Goodrich that goes beyond Indiana University to uncover the stories that make this town unique.

From the city's rich history and hidden stories to the artists, musicians, business owners, and everyday people who shape its character, the Real Bloomington is all about discovering what makes this community special.

Join us as we explore the people, places, and stories behind Bloomington!

Discover more at therealbloomington.com.

Enjoyed this episode? Here's how you can support Real Bloomington:

• SUBSCRIBE on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts so you don't miss an episode.

• RATE & REVIEW the show to help more people discover us.

• SHARE the podcast with friends, family, and anyone who loves Bloomington!

Thanks for listening and being part of the Real Bloomington community. We're excited to have you along for the journey!