Ohio Printmakers: Celebrate Women! Honoring the Centennial of the 19th Amendment

Phoenix Rising Printmaking Cooperative in Columbus, Ohio is announcing an exhibit of all Ohio printmakers and book artists to honor the centennial of the 19th Amendment to the constitution of the United States, ratified June 6, 1920 in Ohio. The printed arts have played a key role in the pursuit and success of social causes. During the women's suffrage movement in the United States, printers created a body of work that raised awareness, formed public opinion and helped to win the vote for women. Print as advertisement, art and political propaganda had the advantage over other mediums by using multiples of a work to address truth and justice. Posters, banners, postcards and handbills were created in print shops across the country.

Printmakers and book artists in Ohio are invited to submit original artwork that highlights the history of voting rights for women. Artists are encouraged to seek inspiration from the contributions made by women in all areas of life and to interpret the theme broadly and creatively. All fine art printmaking mediums are welcome including relief, intaglio, lithography, silkscreen, monotype and letterpress. Artist books must include fine art printmaking in any of the techniques listed above and be constructed by hand. Work may be submitted in three formats: poster size (18" x 24" image printed on 22" x 30" paper), handbill size (5" x 8" image printed on 9" x 12" paper), or artist books that can be displayed on a pedestal. Submissions must include 1-3 images. Entry fee is $35.00 (high school students $20.00). The juror is Liz Chalfin, Founder and Director of Zea Mays Printmaking in Florence, MA.

The exhibition will be held at Urban Arts Space (The Ohio State University) in downtown Columbus from August 4-September 19, 2020. Artists will be notified by email by July 1, 2020. The juror will select prize winners in each category: poster, handbill and artist book, with one grand prize winner. The Grand Prize winning print will be featured on the cover of the exhibit catalogue. An opening reception will be held at the venue at a date to be announced. Urban Arts Space will retain a 30% commission on all works sold. All artwork selected for the exhibition must remain as part of the exhibit for the duration of the show. Special rates apply: up to three college students from one college program can apply as a team for a single $35 entry fee; high school teachers may enter the work of up to three students for a combined total of three prints for $20, with each additional submission at $10.