Master Print Series

Over the past three decades, guided by the expertise of Printmaking professors Nona Hershey and Fred Liang, the Master Print Series has blossomed into an annual tradition. It unites revered contemporary artists with MassArt’s aspiring printmakers, resulting in an exquisite body of work.

MassArt has been honored to welcome to this distinguished artists in residence program renowned artists such as Kiki Smith, Sarah Sze, Dr Lakra, Winfred Rembert, Michael Mazur, and more.

Students work in teams on all aspects of matrix preparation – including preliminary proofing, paper and ink preparation, and learning to methodically print consistent, professional level editions.

The experience the students gain in this 4-5 day marathon has a radically positive effect. It encourages higher expectations, desire, and skill sharpening in presenting their own work in a noticeably more professional manner.

The editions made are divided between the visiting artist and the Printmaking Department. The subsequent sale of prints covers the entire cost of the projects. Any profit goes to Fine Arts 2D student Merit Awards and supports additional special events in Printmaking such as Visiting Artist lectures, workshops, demonstrations, and individual studio visits.

Iron Print Competition

Each spring, students from area colleges form a four-person team and participate in an “Iron Print” competition to create an edition of 10 prints. An orientation occurs one week before the event. During that week, each team can plan their approach to making their image.

On the day of the event, within a set time limit, the teams compete against each other to create their image. It must combine lithography, intaglio, relief, and silkscreen, and incorporate a bag of mystery ingredients as well.

A panel of professional artists judge each teams’ edition based on the quality of their image, the quality of their edition printing, their team work, and their sheer creativity. Prizes are awarded at the end of the day.

Southern Graphics Print Council

Students have the opportunity to take an annual trip to the Southern Graphics Print Council Conference, the largest print organization in North America, allows students to meet and connect with contemporary master printers.

International Fine Print Dealers Association Fine Print Fair

A visit to the Fine Art Print Fair is a living classroom, affording students the opportunity to meet leading art dealers, master printers, and modern publishers from around the world.