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Sheffield Printmakers

Sheffield Printmakers – promoting the art of printmaking

Sheffield Printmakers was formed in 2014. Inspired, in part, by the Graves Gallery’s excellent Leonard Beaumont exhibition, a group of us got together, agreed on a few, basic principles and that was it! But who are we and what is meant by printmaking? A print is produced by creating a plate from any of a range of materials including lino, mountboard and metal. The plate is then covered with ink and paper is pressed onto it either by hand or using a press.

We’re a mixed bunch: full and part time artists, those rediscovering their love of art through printing and complete beginners and newcomers to printing. Many enjoying it as a creative process enabling us to experiment, some using printing to create their own career. The exhibition and shows we put on are open to everyone with no selection taking place. The great thing about printing is that you don’t have to be brilliant at drawing! Just experimenting with colour and shape can produce some wonderful results!

Sheffield Printmakers now have about 40 members and have put on many exhibitions and events, both as a group and as individuals. Some of our members have been selected to exhibit at prestigious shows including the Royal Academy, Sheffield Millennium Gallery and The Harley Gallery, Welbeck. The group and individuals have shown across the country in Bakewell, Hull, Barnsley, Derby, Chesterfield, Dronfield, Wrexham we have shown work in cafes, shops, galleries, pubs, town halls and of course gardens. We also aim to promote printmaking in Sheffield, educate and share good practice.

Many of the printmakers have their own studios and workshops. Some offer workshops in specific printing processes. Many of the printers attend other artists’ workshops to learn new techniques. Peter York has a studio here in Meersbrook.

We have two other main events coming up this year. First of all we’re taking over the Pop Up shop in the Winter Garden from 30th May to 6th June. There will be lots of cards and prints for sale. Then we’re staging an exhibition at the Dronfield Barn High Street Dronfield S18 1PY from 14th – 27th November. Sheffield Printmakers will be showing their latest works, all of which will be for sale.

Sheffield Printmakers Walled Garden 2022