Between Cities, Let's Print!

I've been back and forth on the train between Baltimore and New York City several times in the past few weeks, seeing much but unfortunately not having the time to post about it here. Since I've been producing prints on a regular basis (they make meaningful Valentine's Day gifts!) and preparing to get back into the print shop soon, a few exhibits stand out.

Zhang Huan, in Neither Coming Nor Going at Pace Gallery in Chelsea, takes woodcuts literally, with his large images carved into assembled planks of wood: very powerful, very direct.

Woodcuts Now, at the Baltimore Museum of Art, features a selection of large-scale woodcuts, like the Bosman pictured. A real nice Alison Saar is also included: the grouping is up through March 28.


While at the BMA, I took this picture of Ashley Bickerton's work HI and e-mailed it to him at his studio in Bali (we're BFFs on FB). He replied that he hadn't seen it in 20 years and had no idea where it was. He also said, "It literally is just 'HI' and is a big 'F You' to minimalism."

What surely will be a print enthusiast's heaven, The Baltimore Fair for Contemporary Prints & New Editions at the BMA, Saturday, March 27 & Sunday, March 28 and up in Philadelphia, Philagrafika 2010, is billed as an international festival that celebrates the role of the print as a vital force in contemporary art (from January 29 through April 11, throughout Philadelphia). Showcasing the work of more than 300 artists at 88 area art institutions, surely there will be something for everyone. I've been looking forward to this event.