The London Original Print Fair

In a sort of arty ‘dream dinner party guest’ line-up, next month you’ll have the opportunity to see Rembrandt and Goya rub shoulders with the likes of Pablo Picasso, Roy Lichtenstein, Quentin Blake and Freud.

Alan Kitching, Blitz. Part of The London Suite II, 2012

Source: Courtesy: Advanced Graphics London

Alan Kitching, Blitz. Part of The London Suite II, 2012

Yes, it’s time again for the London Original Print Fair, which returns for its 28th year.

TESS JARAY RA, After Malevich Pale Blue. Part of The London Suite II, 2012

Source: Courtesy: Advanced Graphics London

TESS JARAY RA, After Malevich Pale Blue. Part of The London Suite II, 2012

The fair will see 50 worldwide exhibitors showing their wares, covering all periods of printmaking including the early woodcuts of 15th century artist Albrecht Dürer and his peers, and contemporary graphic works from artists such as David Hockney, Damien Hirst, Gary Hume and Grayson Perry.

Kate Whiteford, Afterimage. Part of The London Suite II, 2012

Source: Courtesy: Advanced Graphics London

Kate Whiteford, Afterimage. Part of The London Suite II, 2012

Many of the exhibitors will be using the fair as a platform to show new works, including Paupers Press, which is to show unseen prints by Mat Collishaw, Bob & Roberta Smith and Stephen Chambers, as well as archive works by Maggi Hambling and Brian Ingham.

We’re excited to see the signature water-based work of David Hockney:

David Hockney Lithographic water made of Lines, Crayon, and a Blue wash Lithograph printed in colours, 1978-80.

Source: Courtesy: Sims Reed Gallery

David HockneyLithographic water made of Lines, Crayon, and a Blue washLithograph printed in colours, 1978-80.

Another piece that caught DW’s eye is this lovely graphic print of the Shard by Paul Catherall:

Paul Catherall, ARE Shard Pink

Source: Courtesy: Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers

Paul Catherall, ARE Shard Pink

A few of the prints seem to have looked to recent events for inspiration, such as this decidedly Litchtenstein-esque piece from Matthew Pagett:

Matthew Pagett 2012 Screenprint No Title

Source: Courtesy: Royal College of Art Printmaking

Matthew Pagett, 2012 Screenprint, No Title

As well as exploring the plethora of prints, visitors can also hear an opening talk by Quentin Blake in conversation with Kathleen Soriano, director of exhibitions at the RA, entitled The Prospect of Print. The pair will be discussing the graphic tradition and Blake’s recent ventures into working with etching and lithography.

The London Original Print Fair runs from 25 –28 April at the Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington House, London W1J

Start the discussionStart the discussion
  • Post a comment

Latest articles