About Printmaking

The USF Printmaking Program emphasizes the unique quality of the graphic aesthetic and its special place in the visual arts. The significance of printmaking's rich formal pedigree continues to inspire through the elegance of process. The communal spirit is an important component of the USF print shop facilitating professional course delivery, technical training and real world opportunities. Courses offered in printmaking include all of the traditional processes as well as specialized thematic courses. Students are expected to explore the role of the printmaker in society and the significance of prints as a vital form of communication. Undergraduate students progress through a concentration in printmaking by learning basic techniques and materials, later advancing to more inventive and conceptual uses of print media. Graduate students focus on relevant critical and contemporary issues facilitating formal and conceptual growth in preparation for a final research project. There are two separate fully equipped print studios that include two large etching presses, two lithography presses, numerous litho stones, manual screen presses and a graphics darkroom. There is also a complete digital printing studio including 44” and 17” inkjet printers. For advanced undergraduate and graduate students there is a dedicated room for individual studio spaces. Exchange portfolios, print exhibitions and visiting artists expose students to the many aspects of printmaking as a disciplinary and interdisciplinary activity. The printmaking program, as well as the entire School of Art and Art History, enjoys a highly productive relationship with Graphicstudio, the world-acclaimed print and sculpture atelier located on the USF campus. Similar to the Graphicstudio model, students in the advanced Collaborative Workshop work directly with visiting artists in the production of print editions