Punchcard Economy is a project by artist Sam Meech using data collected from people’s working hours (predominantly in the digital, creative and cultural industries) to create a translation of the 888 movement banner. The final work – a 5m x 3m knitted banner – is produced on a domestic knitting machine using a combination of digital imaging tools, the img2Track hack and traditional punchcard systems to produce the design.

The banner design is based on that of the '8 Hour Day' movement, dating back to 1817, and led by mill owner and socialist Robert Owen. Their campaign for fair structure for work, recreation and rest – 888 – led to the common 40 hour week. Whilst this made sense in the context of the industrial revolution, the present day context of digital tools, zero hours contracts and flexible working make drawing a distinction between modes of working much more difficult.

The work was originally developed for FACT Liverpool, for their Time and Motion exhibition.

Video Making of the Punchcard Economy machine knitted banner project by Sam Meech filmed and edited by Tim Brunsden. Supported by Arts Council England and FACT Liverpool.