Historic printmaking inspires artists

By Derrick Kunz

Centuries ago, printmaking techniques—some of which are still used today—revolutionized western culture, making news, literature and art available to the multitudes. Visitors to the Link Gallery’s Printed Matters exhibition in the Murray Building are offered an historical glimpse into local, national and international examples of printing as a means of mass communication and as an art form.

As an extension of the historical perspective, 14 local artists and printmakers with University of Saskatchewan connections, ten of whom are Arts & Science alumni, created original prints inspired by material housed in University Archives and Special Collections. "Printed Matters Now" in the Gordon Snelgrove Gallery features the new original prints alongside their inspirational archival material.

Dee Gibson, supervisor at University Archives and Special Collections was a driving force behind the exhibition, supported by the experience and assistance of U of S archivist Cheryl Avery every step of the way.

Gibson invited local artists to participate. “They are all people I was inspired by in class or by their experience in printmaking, people I admire as artists,” she said. “It’s a nice tie-in to have the U of S connections; for some of them to have the opportunity to revisit campus and to have a personal investment in the project because it supports the university they attended.”

Being familiar with the artists, Gibson brought out a selection of archival material she thought might inspire them. “I tried to tailor the selection to the various styles and interests of the artists. Some had their own ideas of what they’d like to look at based on what they were working on in their studio practices.

“The artists really came together as a community,” explained Gibson. “Artists work alone a lot, but printmaking brings people together; they need to share equipment and space. It’s really community oriented.”

Each artist produced 20 prints and will receive a complete collection of all 14 prints. University Archives and Special Collections and Library and Archives Canada will each receive a set, and the remaining sets will be set aside as gifts to future major donors of the planned library expansion project. A catalogue of the material is now in the works as a result of how well the exhibition has been received.

Guests enjoy the the Printed Matters Now exhibition at the June 27 reception. Photo by David Bindle.

Techniques used “span all the basic printmaking methods”: screen printing, etching, stone lithography, aquatint, woodblock, linocut (relief), embossing and waterless lithography, a technique pioneered by former U of S professor and honorary degree recipient, Nik Semenoff.

The community aspect shone through preparing the gallery for the show. “We developed strong connections among the University Library, University Archives and Special Collections, the artists, alumni and the community,” said Gibson. Many of the artists put in a lot of extra effort to paint the gallery walls and hang the pieces.

A reception was held July 27 at the Snelgrove Gallery. For exhibition and gallery hours, visit usask.ca/snelgrove.

Biographies of all 14 artists involved in the project can be read on the Alumni News website.