Editor’s note: This is the second installment of an occasional series on printmaking at SCAD.
Printmakers are known to combine ancient and modern techniques with artistic sense to produce timeless artwork.
But is the market ready for those professionals after they graduate – especially in times of recession?
People in the field think so. Printmakers should work to make themselves stand out as independent artists, posits professor Robert Brown, chair of SCAD’s printmaking department. Until then, there are plenty of options for printmakers to make a living in their field.
“Some artists have opened print shops and galleries,” said Brown, adding that some of them have invested in equipment, secured work locations and are subletting them to other artists. Also, many young professionals intern in printmaker studios and workshops, where they can collaborate with other professionals and gain exposure for their work.
According to SCAD career services adviser Mary Neely, 80 percent of all SCAD printmaking graduates are currently employed in their field.
And a growing number of students now pursue printmaking as a minor.
“While the program is currently relatively small as a major, a number students are being educated in Printmaking as a minor and growth is expected as students begin to recognize there are employment opportunities available to them,” Neely said.
SCAD graduates work at such places as the Printmaker’s Studio, Tandem Press and Canon Ball Press, while others land careers in the field of arts administration.
“One has been quite successful with his own work and currently owns his own studio. Another who minored in printmaking successfully runs his own shop in Brooklyn, N.Y.,” Neely added.
Another good opportunity for printmakers is to collaborate with photographers.
Printmaking is a career choice that may seem exotic at a first glance. However, it presents some promising opportunities. SCAD Atlanta offers a platform for those who want to experiment with a variety of print techniques, collaborate with experienced artists and pursue a career in that field.