Explore
From woodcut to screen-printing, from etching to digital imaging, printmaking traces the evolution of humans recording and dispersing their cultures. The field of contemporary printmaking remains a varied and evolving landscape, from artists who continue to find inspiration in the centuries old techniques of inking and printing plates, to those working in book forms, installation, and to those embracing digital technologies. The printmaking area at Auburn offers a number of approaches for students to consider, and embraces ideas across disciplines. Printmaking's wide stance across centuries, cultures and approaches rewards its practitioners with endless possibilities.
Process
Students at Auburn University learn traditional techniques with a non-toxic emphasis, through courses on relief, intaglio and serigraphy. These techniques are augmented with newer digital technologies, including large format inkjet printing and laser cutting, allowing students to combine skills in digital imaging with traditional methods. As students gain familiarity with this range of methods and continue to refine their ideas they learn how to recognize and expand the borders of printmaking to suit their individual pursuits. In Advanced Printmaking, students are given freedom to utilize and refine the skills they have learned with personally directed projects.
Facilities
Students studying printmaking work in well-equipped studios located on the lower level of Biggin Hall. Students work on two Charles Brand Etching Presses (36"x60" and 26"x40") and one Sturges Etching Press (30"x60"). The screen-printing area has 12 stations for printing, a 30"x40" NuArc exposure unit and a washout area. Advanced students work in a separate semi-private shared studio. Additionally printmaking students can take advantage of the large format Canon printer and Universal laser cutter on the first floor of Biggin Hall.