The Printing Press Blog

Printing With a Purpose: Buffalo Printer Brings Veterans’ Photos to Life for PTSD Awareness

By: Perla Johnson, Senior Content Marketing Manager, LexJet

Expression through photography has no limits. Imagination and ideas flow freely. While some claim print photography is dead, Mark Russell, of Buffalo Canvas proves otherwise. His shop in Buffalo, New York, printed the photos for an exhibition at the Central Library focused on spreading awareness on the struggles some veterans face with PTSD. The Odyssey Project created by photojournalist, Brendan Bannon, features photographs from 42 veterans.

The outdoor exhibit had its share of challenges, including withstanding temperatures that would vary between 40 to 65 degrees. Russell needed a product with the right adhesive, was easily removable, and met fire safety standards with a Class A fire rating. He turned to LexJet for answers. “We don’t have all the information, so the relationship with LexJet is important,” Russell explained. “LexJet has a solution almost every time.” LexJet recommended General Formulations 226HTR WallMark™ to fit the bill.

GF 226HTR has a unique and innovative pressure-sensitive adhesive that is specially formulated to be both high-tack and removable (HTR). The combination of vinyl and adhesive is designed to stick aggressively to most surfaces but is specially formulated to remove cleanly for up to a year.

▪ Unique HTR adhesive is both high-tack and removable and allows for ease of installation
▪ Print and cut edge-to-edge with stunning image quality and superior hold
▪ Safe for all spaces with its E84 Class A fire rating


The exhibit was installed on a large exterior granite wall of the library. Weather conditions put the product to the test. “It was tough with the weather, one day, it was 65 and the next, snowing. We’ve been using different General Formulations products on other projects, so we felt confident.”

For the installation, having the right adhesive was a must. Choosing media that is Class A fire-rated is also an important factor for a public exhibition.

“LexJet’s recommendation of the GF 226 HTR performed really well, giving us flexibility with the install and being easily removable. It printed beautifully, and the installation went smoothly. The library loved it and has extended the exhibit through May.”

Perfect timing with Memorial Day on May 30. Sharing the experience through the art of photography and capturing the stories of veterans offers the opportunity to pay honor to the men and women who have proudly served our country. The exhibition runs through May 31 at the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library at 1 Lafayette Square in Buffalo, New York. The event is free and open to the public.