Can Can Press is the Risograph studio reshaping the print and zine scene in Mexico City

Founded by Gabino Azuela and Jackie Crespo in 2017, Can Can Press is a creative studio, publisher and independent press based in the heart of Mexico City. From the project’s early beginnings, the pair have stuck with the colourful layers of the Risograph as the medium for their creative output, offering up print services and educational workshops to the public on the art. But as time has gone on, the studio’s practice has become more and more multidisciplinary, Jackie tells us. Outside of the press, the studio now takes on its fair share of visual identity projects, editorial design work and art direction, alongside its very own streetwear offshoot, Underground Souvenirs.

This line of goods was born from the press’ ongoing exploration of alternative formats to push print beyond the page. “What began as a graphic experiment in wearable design quickly evolved into a fully realised streetwear brand,” Jackie shares, “The concept was simple: to recontextualise the souvenir as a design object. From graphic t-shirts to collectible design pieces, each product reflects the visual energy of Mexico City and its global intersections – each piece telling its own unique story.” We particularly love its ‘Break glass in case of creative crisis’ t-shirt, not to mention the ‘do nothing as long as possible’ hat.

When merging traditional print techniques with contemporary aesthetics, Can Can takes its influence from local and vernacular graphic design and architecture: “from rótulos found in facades to candles and soaps from magic and herbalist’s shops inside markets”, Jackie says. Alongside its output of prints, products, and projects, the press has something very special in the works. After frequenting book fairs for several years, the studio decided to launch the first edition of one of its biggest creative ventures yet: Hardcore Art Book Fair, in Mexico City this July. The event will bring together national and international publishers and artists alike to share prints, books, fanzines, merch, objects and more with the wider creative scene, fostering an atmosphere of community and collaboration – what Can Can do best.