York Printmakers Fair returns to city for this weekend

ART lovers should make tracks for York Cemetery Chapel this weekend where talented printmakers are holding their annual fair.

The York Printmakers Annual Print Fair, now in its seventh year, will take place in the historic chapel on Saturday and Sunday, from 10am to 5pm. Entry is free.

The fair has earned a reputation as North Yorkshire’s best affordable original print fair and brings people from all over the country to view, chat about and buy prints.

A spokesperson said: "Our members have a wide range of printmaking backgrounds and different levels of experience, but they all share a passion for print. The physical process of cutting, carving, inking, and printing is much of what makes this art form so addictive.

"One of the driving forces of this thriving group is to come together to exchange ideas and support each other in our individual print explorations.

Browsing at the York Printmakers Fair

"Printmaking is both a craft and an art and there is always something new to learn. Our members delight in sharing this interest and inspiring others. What better way to discover how original prints are made than at this annual print fair."

They said that the exhibiting printmakers' enthusiasm for print has been experienced by many visitors and has even encouraged some to start their own creative journey.

Patricia Pinder travelled from Preston to the print fair last year and said: “I have wanted to attend one of the exhibitions for a couple of years and I have not been disappointed! There’s an incredible treasure trove of talent and creativity. From talking to some of the members, I have been inspired to try printmaking. I am so looking forward to having some time to be creative and try out some simple printmaking techniques.”

There will be plenty to see at the annual print fair, including etching, linocut, collagraph, monotype, screen print, solar plate, Japanese woodblock, lithography, stencilling, and gel plate printing.

Visitors are welcome to chat with the artists behind the prints.

Some members teach printmaking courses, so this is also an opportunity to learn more.

Hundreds of original prints will be on display and available to buy.

The event takes place at York Cemetery, York YO10 5AJ, on September 21 and 22, from 10am to 5pm. Visitors can also take a walk around the cemetery grounds, well-known for its wildlife and tranquillity.

Find out more at www.yorkprintmakers.org.uk and on social media @YorkPrintmakers.