Platemark: prints and the printmaking ecosystem

Join host Ann Shafer for a fascinating deep dive into the history of the early print trade in Europe with distinguished authors and historians Karen Bowen and Dirk Imhof. Drawing on fifteen years of meticulous research in the archives of the Plantin-Moretus Museum in Antwerp, Karen and Dirk unpack the vast socio-economic networks that powered the sixteenth- and seventeenth-century print market. From tracking international shipping routes and historical price lists to revealing the crucial, often-overlooked roles of women in print workshops and financial transactions, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights for print historians, collectors, and enthusiasts alike. Tune in to uncover the hidden layers behind how historical prints were produced, distributed, and valued.

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Step into the grand, shadowy, and endlessly inventive world of Giovanni Battista Piranesi. In this episode, Ann and Tru conclude their conversation focusing on Piranesi's best known series, The Imaginary Prisons (Carceri).

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Join host Ann Shafer for an illuminating conversation with artist and SCAD educator Curtis Bartone. In this episode, Curtis pulls back the curtain on the alchemical medium of lithography and his secret sauce of counter etching, discussing his artistic evolution from the Midwest to Savannah, Georgia, and how he balances rigorous technical mastery with experimental mark-making. From overcoming early impostor syndrome in the printshop to breaking down the intricate processes behind standout lithographs like Overseer, Curtis shares invaluable insights into landscape transformation, the delicate challenge of knowing when a piece is finished, and what it means to "draw like an etcher." Tune in for a rich exploration of lithography, teaching, and the enduring magic of oil and water.

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Step into the grand, shadowy, and endlessly inventive world of Giovanni Battista Piranesi. In this episode, Ann and Tru explore the extraordinary life and legacy of the 18th-century master printmaker, architect, and polemicist whose sweeping etchings of Rome and terrifyingly surreal Carceri (Prisons) series continue to captivate the imagination. Join us as they examine Piranesi's Venetian roots, his fierce contributions to the Greco-Roman design debates, his enduring influence on figures like Goethe, and the vital artistic legacy of his daughter, Laura Piranesi, in this deep dive into the power of copper and ink.

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Join host Ann Shafer on this episode of Platemark for a captivating journey through more than 55 years in the print world with Daniel Lienau, owner of The Annex Galleries in Santa Rosa, California. From his serendipitous beginnings at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Berkeley to studying under unorthodox educators like Janet Turner, Daniel shares a lifetime of wisdom on print dealing, collection management, and the evolution of the gallery business. Tune in as we discuss his early digital footprint connecting Santa Rosa to a global audience, the cultural significance of print history, and the various rabbit holes of research he's fallen down like prints by members of Atelier 17 and Taller de Gráfica Popular.

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www.annexgalleries.com

Join us on this episode of Platemark for a captivating and deeply personal conversation with the legendary artist, illustrator, and master printmaker Barry Moser. Reflecting on a career defined by extraordinary craftsmanship and intellectual curiosity, Barry shares stories from his beginnings in Chattanooga, his transition from preaching to an ever-questioning artistic life, and the philosophy behind his monumental Pennyroyal Press editions of classics like Alice in Wonderland and the Bible. Tune in as we explore his profound dedication to teaching, his resilience in adapting his process across decades in the studio, and the enduring wisdom of a true giant of the book arts.

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Cover image: Jennifer Chang Crandall

Pennyroyal Press: www.moser-pennyroyal.com

In this episode of Platemark, Ann Shafer sits down with master framer Thoren Vadala of Make-A-Frame Atlantic to explore the meticulous, often overlooked world of picture framing. From the technical realities of custom woodworking versus manufactured MDF to conservation standards like cotton rag mats and UV-filtering glass, Thoren breaks down what it truly takes to protect and elevate a work of art on paper. Tune in for an engaging discussion on framing philosophy, avoiding the trap of standard black-and-white presentation, and why early collaboration between artists and framers makes all the difference.

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Frameatlantic.com

IG @makeitframe

Other suppliers

Gaylord: gaylord.com

Spink and Gabor: no website

Small Corporation: smallcorp.com

Bark Frames: barkframeworks.com

University Products: universityproducts.com

Host Ann Shafer talks with Laura Raicovich about creativity, resistance, and alternative cultural spaces. They talk about Laura's pioneering museum leadership, her upcoming fine jewelry line Istria Napoli, and her fearless advocacy for artistic freedom outside traditional institutional boundaries. From exploring the legacy of the Queens Museum to reimagining sustainable cultural infrastructures like the Francis Kite Club, Laura shares an inspiring roadmap for anyone looking to build a versatile, impact-driven creative life.

Celebrate a milestone with Platemark as we record our first-ever live episode at the 30th anniversary of the McNay Print Fair. Host Ann Shafer is joined by master printer James Stroud (Center Street Studio) to explore the fascinating, high-stakes world of the print shop. From Jim's formative years with Stanley William Hayter at Atelier 17 to modern-day collaborations with artists like Markus Linnenbrink, this episode goes deep into the technical "magic" and the unique creative chemistry that occurs when an artist's vision meets a printer's expertise. Discover why printmaking is more than just a process—it's a community.

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https://www.centerstreetstudio.com/

IG: @centerstreetstudio

What happens when a visionary publisher collaborates with minimalist and conceptual giants like Chuck Close, Agnes Martin, and Dorothea Rockburne? In this episode, host Ann Shafer sits down with Rachel Vogel, Assistant Curator at the Addison Gallery of American Art, to explore the monumental legacy of Parasol Press. Rachel shares the behind-the-scenes stories of curating the exhibition Parasol Press: Breaking New Ground, diving into the innovative vision of founder Bob Feldman, the intricate technical synergy between artists and printers, and how this iconic press fundamentally revitalized the contemporary printmaking ecosystem.

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In this episode of Platemark, host Ann Shafer sits down with Marie Tennyson, Executive Director of the Lower East Side Printshop who shares her inspiring journey from starting at Universal Limited Art Editions (ULAE) at age 22 to championing one of New York City's most vital artistic hubs. Discover the rich history of the Lower East Side Printshop—born during a 1968 teachers' strike—and learn how it continues to provide affordable studio space, foster emerging talent, and invite artists of all backgrounds to experience the collaborative magic of printmaking. Tune in for an engaging conversation about community, artistic innovation, and keeping the printmaking tradition alive and accessible.

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https://printshop.org/

IG @printshoporg

In this episode of Platemark, we sit down with exceptional artist, printmaker, animator, and educator Jenny Schmid for a thought-provoking discussion on the intersections of history, art, and activism. We explore how historical figures like Käthe Kollwitz and José Posada influence Jenny's contemporary practice, delve into her fascinating project "Disembodied Reembodied," and celebrate the vital role of the Minnesota printmaking community in resisting oppressive systems. Jenny also shares a glimpse into her upcoming work examining midwifery, witch accusations, and women's labor history.

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https://jennyschmid.com/

https://storymaps.arcgis.com/collections/cf19f0b0a7414dceb28f1fcd0dbd1ac7

https://vimeo.com/1087246787?fl=pl&fe=sh

Please note: This episode contains sensitive discussions regarding the history of violence and racism in America, the murder of George Floyd, ICE, and the current socio-political landscape; listener discretion is advised.

Ever wonder about the incredible artistry hiding in your wallet? In this episode, Ann sits down with Tom Hipschen, a former master engraver at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing who spent nearly four decades crafting the very banknotes and postage stamps we handle every day. Tom takes us behind the scenes of his extraordinary career—from his grueling decade-long apprenticeship and serving as the lead picture engraver for the $20 bill, to engraving over 130 US postage stamps. We delve into the fascinating intersection of centuries-old hand engraving, cutting-edge anti-counterfeiting technology, and a poignant look at his legacy as he navigates life with essential tremor. Tune in for a conversation that will completely change how you look at the everyday prints right in your pocket.

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In this episode, host Ann Shafer sits down with Venezuelan-born artist and educator Reinaldo Gil Zambrano. Based in Spokane, Washington, Reinaldo is a relief printmaking specialist whose work explores themes of home, heritage, and the universal human experience. As an Assistant Professor at Gonzaga University and co-founder of the Spokane Print and Publishing Center, Reinaldo discusses his commitment to "democratic" art-making and his role as a bilingual bridge-builder in the global print community. From his early education at United World College to his recent solo museum debut, Reinaldo shares how storytelling and collaboration remain at the heart of everything he carves.

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🔗 Relevant Links

• Reinaldo's Artist Website: https://rgzprints.com/
• Spokane Print and Publishing Center: https://www.spokaneprint.org/
• "Pulling Roots" Exhibit at the Northwest Museum: Northwest Museum - Reinaldo Gil Zambrano
• Spokane Print Fest: spokaneprintfest.org
• United World Colleges (Costa Rica): uwccostarica.org

In this episode, host Ann Shafer sits down with Val Lucas, the artist and master printer behind Bowerbox Press. From her early shift from painting to printmaking at MICA to her current work casting custom metal type and ornaments, Val shares her journey through the tactile, meticulous world of letterpress. We dive into the technical evolution of the craft—balancing traditional handset type with modern polymer plates—and discuss the vibrant, tight-knit community of women preserving this historic art form. Join us for a deep dive into the patience, machinery, and artistry required to keep the "magic of the press" alive in a digital age.

IG: @bowerbox

http://www.bowerbox.com

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In s2e38, Ann and Tru continue their History-of-Prints conversation about Venice in the 18th century. This is part three of three in which we talk about father and son, Giovanni Battista Tiepolo and Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo. Shift your gaze from the canals to the clouds as we explore the whimsical, light-filled world of Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. A master of the Rococo, Tiepolo brought a sense of effortless spontaneity to his etchings, moving his needle with the fluidity of a pen. We break down his transition into the world of "Scherzi di Fantasia," where mythical scenes and fantastical themes come to life with remarkable finesse. Unlike the rigid reproductions of the past, Tiepolo's prints offer a personal narrative and a direct line to his wildest fantasies, proving why he remains one of the most enchanting storytellers in the history of art.

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What happens when you trade a job at Kinko's for a career as one of the art world's most provocative curators? In this episode, Ann sits down with the legendary Nato Thompson to explore how he navigates the complex intersections of community, culture, and the "art ecosystem." They dive into his latest mission—The Alternative Art School—where he is dismantling the myth of the solitary genius and building a global, accessible sanctuary for creatives. From the rise and fall of NFT hype to the deeply collaborative parallels between his work and the printmaking community, Nato shares why lean-in community support is the ultimate fuel for any artistic journey. Join them for an energizing look at how to find your calling by embracing the "crazy" and connecting with the collective.

IG: @NatoThompson, @thealternativeartschool

http://www.thealternativeartschool.com

In s2e37, Ann and Tru continue their History-of-Prints conversation about Venice in the 18th century. This is part two of three in which we talk about Canaletto. While often remembered as a topographical painter of postcards, Canaletto was, in fact, a master of curated reality. In this segment, they examine how Canaletto transformed the ordinary streets and canals of Venice into grand, cinematic scenes. Whether using the camera obscura to manipulate perspective or painting en plein air, he captured the "Venetian Vibe" with a meticulous yet lively brush. We take a deep dive into his Capricci—imaginative visions and cityscapes that felt more like Venice than the city itself—and discuss how his work became the ultimate souvenir for travelers seeking to bottle the spirit of the floating city.

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David Barthold's journey as a printmaker began at age 13, took him through the legendary studio of Atelier 17 in Paris, and eventually led to a hiatus that ended in a burst of lino-cut street art during the pandemic.

In this episode, we explore the life and work of a native New Yorker who refuses to stay in one lane. We dig into his early start learning under Ruth Leaf as a teenager and honing his craft at Oberlin and in France; printmaking as protest and how the pandemic pushed David out of the studio and onto the streets of Park Slope, using wheat-pasted portraits of figures like RBG and George Floyd to engage his community; David's transition from painting back to the "grease and gears" of the print studio, and why he finds spontaneity in such a technical medium; and building the ecosystem understanding the vital role of community, shared spaces, and the mentors who keep the print world spinning. David's work is a masterclass in how a centuries-old medium can strike at the heart of contemporary culture.

Follow David's street art and studio updates on Instagram: @DavidFBarthold

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Step into the sun-drenched world of 18th-century Venice as we explore the "theatrical splendor" that defined an era. In this episode, Ann and resident expert Tru Ludwig dive into the vibrant Venetian art scene, where the city itself served as both a stage and a muse. We set the scene by discussing the transition from the heavy Baroque style to the airy, spontaneous Rococo and the rise of the "Grand Tour." Discover why 18th-century Venice wasn't just a destination, but a living, breathing entity where reality and imagination blurred through the medium of etching, catering to a new generation of connoisseurs seeking the direct, autographic hand of the artist.

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