Printmaking, a venerable art form, has found a new home on the South Fork, and a captivating exhibition is set to unveil the rich tapestry of this medium. This exhibition will run from January 14th to February 25th, with an opening reception on Saturday, January 13th at 6pm at the Church in Sag Harbor. Curated by Samuel Havens, The Church’s Workshop and Residency Manager and a seasoned printmaker himself, the show focuses on three distinct criteria that shape its narrative. Artists must have a notable connection to the South Fork, the artwork must stem from a collaborative relationship between the artist and printer(s), and the resulting pieces must demonstrate exceptional quality, showcasing the medium’s capabilities, the artist’s distinctive style, or both.
The 27 carefully selected objects mirror the rich diversity of traditional printmaking methods and highlight the unique properties inherent in the medium. From etchings to lithographs, the exhibition promises to showcase artists’ varied techniques to bring their visions to life. Havens, with a discerning eye, has chosen works that exemplify not only the technical prowess of the medium but also the collaborative spirit between the artist and the printer.
The exhibition delves into the collaborative nature of printmaking, unraveling how artists, printers, and the press can synergize to produce results that surpass individual expertise. Extensive research into the printers involved sheds light on their crucial roles in the artistic process, both in crafting these remarkable objects and contributing to the vibrant East End community of artists and art-making.
The featured artists’ lineup is stellar, comprising stalwarts such as Elaine de Kooning, Connie Fox, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Motherwell, and Alfonso Ossorio. Surprising connections to the East End include Hale Woodruff, Romare Bearden, James Rosenquist, and Jasper Johns. Artists with pivotal roles in the medium’s advancement, such as Abraham Rattner and Dan Welden, add depth to the exhibition and other discoveries and surprises that promise to captivate the audience.
Expressing his excitement about the exhibition, Havens, as a printmaker himself, shares his profound understanding of the magic that happens when the press meets creativity. He looks forward to sharing this celebration of the medium, emphasizing that the showcased works continue The Church’s exploration of the East End’s richness within the global context of contemporary art.
“Pressing Perspectives” promises to be a landmark exhibition, offering a unique lens to explore the vibrant world of East End printmaking. With its carefully curated selection, the show pays homage to the collaborative spirit that defines this medium and its profound impact on the artists, printers, and the community at large.
