Diversity and talent on show in printed matter

The finest of art from Galway’s finest print-makers is currently on display in the Connacht Tribune Printworks Gallery. Printed Matter is the annual exhibition from the 30 members of Galway Print Studio and this year’s show includes guest artist from Dublin’s Graphic Print Studios.

The exhibition, which will run until August 27, has an eclectic array of work on offer, ranging from landscapes to figurative and abstract works as well as digital photography, print textiles, and a 3-D sculpture.

They have been created using age-old print-making techniques, with some of the artists also using new technology including 3-D printers and digital photography.

The art in Printed Works offers an in-depth look print-making culture in the West of Ireland.  Along the way, it explores how print-making has evolved to accommodate our current touch-screen age. The art on show demonstrates why print-making remains important.

This is the culmination of a scheme, entitled EP’16, which celebrates Irish print-making by allowing artists to exchange work. A group of 30 artists from all over Ireland created work for the initiative and their prints were exchanged in a process overseen by Galway Print Studio.

The works from EP’16 are now being exhibited in The Connacht Tribune Printworks while three box-sets have been collated for a special raffle. The first and second prize have 10 original prints, including a John Behan or Pádraic Reaney piece, while the third prize has 10 original prints.

Tickets cost €10 and can be purchased on the website or at the gallery.

Being an artist can be a lonely business, and Galway Print Studio offers a place where people can meet, exchange ideas and offer each other encouragement. The group also collaborates with other print-making bodies in Ireland, which is why Dublin’s Graphic Print Studio is being represented in the Galway show. Founded in 1960, it’s one of Ireland’s leading print-making groups.

The much younger Galway Print Studio had its debut outing last year, when members exhibited their work, also in the Connacht Tribune Printworks. Since that show, Print is Dead, Long Live Print, the Galway Print Studio members have taken part in exhibitions and residencies across Ireland, as well as in Britain, Brittany and Estonia. Close to home, they were involved in the Shorelines Festival in Portumna.

Printed Matter includes a special exhibition from the children’s classes, while merchandise from Galway Print Studio will also be for sale during the exhibition run. There’s a special display area with mugs and tote bags as well as a selection of original prints from members, all at reasonable prices. These are in addition to the 144 exhibits on display in the gallery, most of which can also be purchased.

■ Printed Matter will run until August 27 at the Connacht Tribune Printworks, Market Street in Galway City. All are welcome.