Printmaking

Program Overview

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Hartford Art School's Printmaking program equips students with technical proficiency in various printmaking techniques, critical thinking skills, and a strong foundation in drawing and composition. The program emphasizes individual mentorship, studio-based learning, and opportunities for collaboration with renowned artists, preparing graduates for careers as practicing print artists, educators, and professionals in related fields.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Hartford Art School's Printmaking program

aims to equip students with the technical and aesthetic skills, as well as critical-thinking abilities, essential for a successful career as a print artist. The program emphasizes expanding drawing and compositional skills, alongside mastery of printmaking techniques.

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Objectives:

• Develop technical proficiency in various printmaking techniques including lithography, etching, relief printing, monotype, letterpress printing, and book arts.
• Nurture critical thinking skills for artistic expression and conceptual development.
• Cultivate a strong foundation in drawing and composition as the basis for printmaking.
• Prepare students for graduate studies or entry into professional printmaking and art careers.

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Description:

The program begins with a foundation year, followed by a series of independent studios and intensive printmaking experiences. Students gain mastery in both lithography and etching, while exploring diverse black-and-white and color processes across different media. The curriculum encourages exploration of other printmaking areas like relief printing, monotype, letterpress printing, and book arts. The culminating senior exhibition serves as a platform for showcasing individual artistic development and prepares graduates for the next phase of their creative journey.

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Outline:

The Printmaking program at Hartford Art School encompasses studio and academic credits:

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Studio Credits (77-80):

• Core Classes:
• Lithography I & II
• Etching I & II
• Printmaking Studio I & II
• Electives (choose 3):
• Relief Printing I & II
• Monotype I & II
• Independent I & II
• Special Topics (2 courses)

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Academic Credits (45-46):

• Foundation year courses (20 credits)
• Drawing I Figure & Drawing II (6 credits)
• Introduction to Painting (3 credits)
• Art History (12 credits)
• All University Curriculum (12-13 credits)
• Writing courses (WRT 110 & 111) (6 credits)
• Mathematics (3 credits)

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Structure:

• The program follows a progressive structure, advancing from foundational studies through independent studio practice.
• Students dedicate themselves to individual studio space with intensive printmaking sessions.
• Flexibility exists to explore diverse areas within printmaking, tailoring the learning experience to individual interests.

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Assessment:

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Assessment methods

• Critiques: Regular individual and group critiques provide constructive feedback from professors and peers.
• Exhibitions: Senior exhibition serves as a culminating assessment showcasing artistic development.
• Coursework: Assignments and projects contribute to overall evaluation of understanding and progress.

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Assessment criteria

• Technical skill and proficiency in chosen printmaking techniques.
• Conceptual understanding and artistic expression.
• Development of individual artistic voice and style.
• Ability to critically analyze and engage with contemporary printmaking discourse.

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Teaching:

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Teaching methods

• Emphasis on individual mentorship and guidance through dedicated faculty attention.
• Studio-based learning with hands-on practice and experimentation.
• Lectures and demonstrations enhance theoretical understanding and exposure to diverse approaches.
• Visiting artists and master printers workshops enrich the learning experience with practical insights.

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Faculty

• Experienced and recognized professional artists who actively exhibit and contribute to the field.
• Dedicated to providing personalized guidance and mentorship to students.
• Committed to fostering a supportive and stimulating learning environment.

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Unique approaches

• The Annual Hartford Print Workshop brings renowned artists to collaborate with students and master printers, resulting in unique collaborative prints housed in the Helen S. Kaman Print Study Center.
• Individualized attention ensures students receive tailored guidance and support for their artistic development.

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Careers:

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Career paths

• Gallery artist
• Printmaking studio owner/operator
• Printmaking instructor/professor
• Arts administrator
• Museum curator
• Book artist
• Graphic designer
• Illustrator

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Opportunities

• Building a career as a practicing print artist.
• Securing positions in museums, galleries, studios, and educational institutions.
• Participating in exhibitions and art fairs.
• Networking with professionals in the art world.

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Outcomes

• Graduates are prepared with the skills and knowledge to pursue diverse career paths in the arts.
• Many alumni gain recognition as successful practicing artists, educators, and professionals in related fields.

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Other:

• The program provides a supportive and collaborative learning environment fostering creative exploration and community among students.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources allows students to experiment and refine their craft.
• Opportunities for internships and networking expand professional connections and future career prospects.
• The program actively seeks to connect graduates with opportunities in the larger art community.