Project Art’s Permanent Collection is home to over 7,000 works of original art spanning a range of artistic mediums: from paintings and photographs to sculptures and textiles. Approximately 40% of the collection is represented by printmaking. While this medium makes up a significant portion of the collection, it is often misunderstood due to the variety in printmaking processes.
Printmaking uses many methods to create an image. The practice is based on creating repeatable images using a matrix. A matrix is a tool created by the artist, like a stencil or carved block, that is used to produce the same image multiple times. Most prints fall into one of four categories, lithography, intaglio, relief, and screenprint. All these methods use a matrix to create different styles of image. Each process is unique, and some prints use multiple processes.
We invite you to come explore the exhibition to learn more about printmaking and its processes! Examine each of the four primary print categories and learn about their creation process as well as differences. Then test your knowledge - how many can you identify?
Photo Credits: Chris Papa, _Launch_, woodcut, UIHC Collection #10322