Steamroller Printing
The Steamroller Printing event is a juried program - we will select four artists from all applicants. To be considered, please submit an application that includes a thumbnail sketch of your concept for this piece. Keep in mind that these do not need to be “finished” drafts of your piece, but they should demonstrate an understanding of the medium, be as detailed as possible, and be representative of what you plan on creating for the final artwork, if selected.
MPORTANT DEADLINES:
May 13: applications open
June 29: applications close - thumbnail sketches & application form due
July 10: selected artists will be notified and linoleum will be shipped
October 11: Print Fiesta! Finished linoleum blocks are due here in Silver City, ready to print!
Apply by June 29th to be considered!
How It Works
We will provide each selected artist with one 36x36” unmounted sheet of linoleum, and we will also provide paper, ink, and brayers at the event. Artists are responsible for providing their own carving tools, and delivering their completed carving in-person on or before the event on Saturday, October 11. Blocks will be inked and printed by experienced Print Fiesta staff and volunteers, and selected artists must be present at the event to assist with printing.
On Saturday, October 11, we will print each block in an edition of 4. One print will go to the artist, one will go into the Southwest Print Fiesta archive for future exhibition, one will go to our event sponsors, and one will be made available for sale or auction to benefit future Print Fiestas. Each artist will retain the rights to their completed linoleum block, and is welcome to reprint on their own in the future.
Questions? Please email info@southwestprintfiesta.org
CARVING TIPS
Here are some basic guidelines for carving linoleum for anyone who hasn’t worked in this medium before. Please note that not all drawing styles will translate well (particularly gradients or shading), so please read through these tips and be in touch if you have any questions.
DO
Create a high-contrast image with bold black and white line work. Submit your drawing as you envision it to be printed (using a sharpie to sketch your design can be useful)
Be mindful of the positive and negative space - all “white space” will need to be carved away. The raised (relief) surface that remains after carving is what will accept ink and print. Please keep this in mind as you create your design and take into consideration the time it will take to carve your image. More white space = more carving time!
Submit work that is in a square format and will translate to a 36” x 36” print
DON’T
Use too much detail - super-fine detail can get lost on large scale prints
Submit drawings using colored pencil, watercolor, or photographs
Submit work that is not a square
If you don’t have your own carving tools, you can purchase a good basic set HERE or from your local art supply store.
