How to become a printmaker

How to become a Printmaker

To become a printmaker, you can follow these detailed steps:

• Gain artistic skills and knowledge: Start by developing a strong foundation in art and drawing. Take art classes in high school or enroll in community art programs. Familiarize yourself with various art mediums and techniques, including printmaking, to understand the principles and processes involved.
• Pursue formal education: Consider obtaining a degree in fine arts or printmaking from an accredited art school, college, or university. Look for institutions that offer comprehensive printmaking programs with specialized facilities and experienced faculty. A degree can provide valuable technical instruction, critical feedback, and exposure to different printmaking methods.
• Learn printmaking techniques: Explore different printmaking techniques such as etching, woodblock, lithography, screen printing, or digital printmaking. Take courses, workshops, or attend printmaking-specific programs to acquire hands-on experience with various methods. Practice under the guidance of experienced printmakers to develop your skills and proficiency in each technique.
• Build a portfolio: Create a portfolio of your best printmaking works to showcase your skills, creativity, and artistic style. Include a diverse range of prints that demonstrate your mastery of different techniques and your ability to handle various subject matters or themes. Regularly update your portfolio as you create new prints and refine your artistic vision.
• Seek exhibition opportunities: Look for opportunities to exhibit your prints in local galleries, art fairs, or community art shows. Participate in juried exhibitions or open calls to gain exposure and receive feedback from professionals in the art community. Exhibiting your work helps you establish your presence as a printmaker and connect with potential clients, collectors, and other artists.
• Join printmaking organizations and networks: Become a member of printmaking organizations and communities such as the International Fine Print Dealers Association (IFPDA), the Southern Graphics Council International (SGCI), or local printmaking societies. These organizations offer networking opportunities, educational resources, and access to conferences, workshops, and symposiums focused on printmaking.
• Collaborate and seek mentorship: Engage with other printmakers, artists, and professionals in the field. Seek opportunities to collaborate on printmaking projects, attend artist residencies, or assist established printmakers. Learning from experienced practitioners can provide valuable insights, guidance, and exposure to different artistic perspectives.
• Build a professional network: Attend art events, openings, and conferences related to printmaking. Engage with artists, curators, gallery owners, and art enthusiasts to expand your professional network. Establishing connections within the art community can lead to exhibition opportunities, commissions, or collaborations.
• Market and promote your work: Create a professional website or online portfolio to showcase your prints and provide information about your artistic practice. Utilize social media platforms and online art communities to share your work, engage with a broader audience, and connect with potential clients or collectors. Consider participating in art markets, craft fairs, or online print sales platforms to promote and sell your prints.
• Continued learning and growth: Printmaking is a dynamic field, and staying updated with new techniques, materials, and artistic trends is essential. Continuously seek opportunities for professional development, such as attending workshops, conferences, or advanced printmaking courses. Stay engaged with the printmaking community and participate in exhibitions, residencies, or collaborations to enhance your skills and expand your artistic horizons.

Helpful Resources
There are numerous helpful resources available for printmakers. Here are some notable ones:

Printmaking Organizations and Societies

• Southern Graphics Council International (SGCI): A leading organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and appreciation of printmaking. They offer resources, conferences, and a network of printmakers.
• International Fine Print Dealers Association (IFPDA): An organization focused on promoting fine prints. They provide resources, access to print dealers, and educational programs.
• American Print Alliance: A coalition of printmaking organizations that offers information, resources, and a directory of printmaking studios and workshops.

Printmaking Journals and Publications

• "Printmaking Today": An international printmaking magazine featuring articles, artist profiles, technical information, and reviews of printmaking exhibitions and events.
• "Printmaking: A Complete Guide to Materials & Processes" by Beth Grabowski and Bill Fick: A comprehensive guidebook that covers various printmaking techniques, materials, and processes.

Printmaking Workshops and Residencies

• Anderson Ranch Arts Center: Offers printmaking workshops, residencies, and summer programs for artists at all levels.
• Women's Studio Workshop: Provides printmaking residencies, workshops, and artist opportunities specifically for women artists.
• Penland School of Craft: Offers printmaking workshops and programs taught by renowned printmakers.

Printmaking Suppliers and Materials

• Blick Art Materials: A widely known art supply retailer that carries a wide range of printmaking materials, including inks, papers, tools, and printmaking presses.
• McClain's Printmaking Supplies: A specialized supplier offering an extensive selection of printmaking materials, tools, and equipment.
• Graphic Chemical & Ink Company: A trusted source for printmaking inks, grounds, and chemicals.

Online Printmaking Communities

• Printmaking Today Forum: An online community where printmakers can discuss techniques, ask questions, and share insights and experiences.
• Printsy: An online community and marketplace for printmakers, offering a platform to showcase and sell prints.
• Printmaking Reddit Community: The printmaking subreddit where artists can share their work, ask for advice, and engage in discussions related to printmaking.

Printmaking Conferences and Events

• SGCI Annual Conference: A major gathering of printmakers, featuring panels, demonstrations, workshops, and exhibitions.
• Southern Graphics Council International Printmaking Conference: An annual event that brings together printmakers from around the world for presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities.