The California Society of Printmakers (CSP) is a non-profit 501(c) arts organization which promotes the practice and appreciation of fine art contemporary printmaking. Our mission is to support both the integrity of traditional printmaking and provide a home for artists exploring new directions in contemporary print methods. Currently, CSP has a membership of nearly 300 artists, and welcomes new members each summer and winter.
Please note, should your application for any CSP activity be accepted, materials and images submitted may be used in social media, online, digital and/or printed publicity.
Entry fees collected for CSP activities are considered charitable donations and may be fully tax deductible, depending on the tax laws of your homeland.
CALL FOR ENTRIES - Mono Variations
The Monoprint technique offers print artists one of the most basic ways to make an impression with a repeating template, stencil, or stamp, that can be loaded with infinite variation. We have probably all seen images of handprints on a rock. A hand print is a fascinating example because the same stamp will produce a different image every time. A monoprint series pressed from a static matrix has a repeating, and yet always morphing theme. Over multiple prints using the same matrix with different applications patterns arise, and variations may divulge a story.
California based printmakers, and eligible CSP members are invited to Submit up to 3 prints from a series of monoprints, based on the same matrix, reusable template, origin of construction, or marked plate. The work should explore an image serially. Submit a minimum of 2, maximum of 3 prints for jurying. Original artwork must be a monoprint between 8" and 22" in width. Accepted artists will have 2 works chosen to show as a pair in the exhibition at Arc Gallery. Accepted artists will have the option to show up to 5 works from the same series online, in our digital web gallery. Digitally displaying the many pieces together will highlight the depth and breadth of the collection.
JUROR
Michelle Edelman, founder and curator of Tint Gallery, San Francisco, CA
Michelle Edelman, founder and curator of TINT Gallery, is a trained art historian currently based in San Francisco. She received her MA from the Courtauld Institute of Art in London, where she focused her studies on 19th century British art. In her curation style, she is largely influenced by James Abbott McNeil Whistler. Prior to Whistler, Victorians stacked paintings from floor to ceiling, cramming in as much artwork as possible. Whistler changed this by emphasizing the need for each artwork to have breathing space, for the viewer to be able to interact with and focus on one work at a time. Whistler believed that all details in an exhibition could be coordinated in such a way that the exhibition itself would become a work of art. Placement was just as important as content. For Michelle Edelman, this is the role of the curator: to create an exhibition that becomes a work of art in itself.
VENUE
SF Arc Gallery 1246 Folsom Street, San Francisco, California
Website: arc-sf.com
IMPORTANT DATES
These dates and times are subject to change. We will maintain every effort to keep timelines updated.
Exhibition Dates: January 13–February 17, 2024.
Submission Open: July 31
Deadline: October 25
Notification of selected Artists: November 5
Shipped Artwork Received By: Wednesday, January 3-6
Artwork Drop Off: Saturday January 7 and 8
Opening Reception: Saturday January 13
Exhibition Talk: TBD
Closing Reception: Saturday, February 17, 12:00-3pm
Artwork Pick Up: Saturday February 17, 3-5:00pm
ELIGIBILITY
Open to all California based artists, and all CSP artist, student, lifetime, honorary members, regardless of location, who are current in their artist dues.
Incomplete applications may not be considered. Please adhere to the following submission instructions.
SUBMISSION PROCESS
Entry Fee
Application fee: $35, $25 for CSP members, for up to 3 pieces.
Entry Submission
Entries are accepted starting August 1, 2023 and will close October 25, 2023.
Entries must be submitted using the CSP Submittable application and include the following:
- Entries must be File Type: JPG or PNG only. File Dimensions: 1,920 pixels or greater on the longest side. Keep File Size: Under 5 MB. Color Profile: sRGB
- Use the following naming convention: 01_Title. (do not indicate artists name under file format)
- A numbered image list that includes the following information for each image in the order and format seen below. Each jpeg number and label must correspond to the number and title on the image list: 1. Title, Medium, Image Dimensions in inches H x W x D, Year, Price.
- Submit a short publication ready artwork statement as it relates to the exhibition theme. (no names)
- Select artwork delivery option (see “Delivery Options” below).
Artwork and Bio information may be used in exhibition and publicity materials. Please submit professional publication ready materials.
ARTWORK
Definition of Monoprint:
Monoprinting and monotyping are similar but not identical. Both involve the transfer of ink from a plate to the paper, canvas, or other surface that will ultimately hold the work of art. In monoprinting, an artist creates a reusable template of the intended image. Templates may include stencils, metal plates and flat stones. This form of printing produces multiple prints from the same template. Monotyping, in contrast, involves the use of an impermanent image that degrades after just one print. For example, one form of monotype transfers painted images from a gelatin plate onto a sheet of paper. Upon completion, the image no longer remains on the gelatin plate.
Monoprints can be thought of as variations on a theme, with the theme resulting from some permanent features being found on the template – lines, textures – that persist from print to print. Variations are endless, but permanent features of the template will persist from one print to the next.
(wikipedia) This definition is given for the purpose of this CFE.
Artwork Requirements / Restrictions
Only artwork utilizing traditional monoprint techniques will be accepted. Work must be between 8 and 22 inches horizontally. Artist books and 3d pieces within the dimension limitations are open to submission. Work must be mounted or framed with wire hang hardware installed or able to safely display on pedestal(s).
Artwork Sales / Commission
Artwork must be for sale. All artwork sales must be processed through Arc Gallery. Arc Gallery retains a commission of 40% of the artwork sale, 60% will be paid to the artist. Sold artwork must remain on exhibit for the duration of the show.
Exhibiting artists are required to sign an Artist Consignment Agreement with Arc Gallery.
Accepted Artwork
Artwork must be clean, framed, wired and ready to hang or place on a base.
Please label artwork on the back/bottom with: Artist Name, Phone #, Email Address, Title of work, Medium, HxWxD, Price.
California Society of Printmakers and Arc Gallery reserve the right to use submitted imagery for promotional uses.
INSURANCE AND LIABILITY
Arc Gallery and CSP will exercise the utmost care in handling all artwork. Arc Gallery covers up to 60% of the stated retail value of the artwork, for loss or damage while installed at the gallery. Artist agrees that artwork will not be insured during artwork transport to/from the gallery or while in the possession of the UPS ship-to site. Insurance release to be provided by Arc Gallery.
CSP does not accept responsibility for lost or damaged artwork regardless of the reason. Exhibiting artists are required to sign an artist consignment agreement with Arc Gallery.
DELIVERY OPTIONS
Work that does not arrive by the below deadlines will not be included in the exhibition.
Drop off Artwork
Sunday and Monday, January 7 and 8. Arc Gallery, 1246 Folsom Street, San Francisco, CA 94103. Time TBD.
Shipped Artwork
Shipped work must arrive by Wednesday, January 3-6. Address will be provided to accepted artists.
All shipped work must have a prepaid UPS or FedEx return shipping label included in the box. Work must be shipped in a sturdy, reusable container. Work that does not arrive by the shipping deadline will not be included in the exhibition.
Pickup Artwork
Saturday February 17, 3-5 pm after closing reception, (or by appointment). Artists may be charged a fee for work left after this date.
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Contact Kevin Harris at exhibitions@caprintmakers.org.
www.caprintmakers.org
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California Society of Printmakers (CSP) Honorary Member Guidelines
The purpose of the Honorary Member category is to honor individuals who have a history of major, sustained contributions to the practice of printmaking based on work in the field by an artist, historian, curator, or related arts professional in any country.
Please submit a short letter outlining your nominee's accomplishments in the field of printmaking and the reasons that you feel they would make a great California Society of Printmakers honorary member.
You are encouraged to submit supporting images, link(s) to an artist website, publications or other relevant information.
Eligibility:
• One or more printmakers, art historians, curators, or related arts professionals may be honored at a CSP annual meeting.
• Current members of the CSP Board of Directors are not eligible for honorary status.
Benefits:
• Life-time paid CSP membership with all rights and privileges of CSP artist members.
• Access to a broad base of independent printmakers.
• Opportunity to participate in Society events such as exhibitions, studio visits, panel discussions.
• Opportunity to join the CSP listserv for information on exhibition opportunities, exhibitions, printmakers in the news, printmaking materials for sale, workshops, etc.
• Receipt of all CSP publications and mailings.
Nomination Procedures:
• Nominations are made in the form of a letter written under one or more signatures by CSP artist members, or CSP honorary members.
• Nomination packets should include one or more letters of support for the nomination, including why you feel your nominee should receive this award, the nominee’s biographical information, and any relevant supporting documentation. Supporting letters may be submitted by both members and non-members.
• Nomination packs must be received no later than Feb. 1 for consideration in the current calendar year.
• All nomination packets will become property of the CSP Archives at the Bancroft Library, University of California.
• Nomination packets may be submitted in one of two ways:
- Electronically via this submittable application (enter materials below).
- By email to the current CSP Vice President: vicepresident@caprintmakers.org
• The decision of the CSP Board of Directors is final.
Adopted by the CSP Board of Directors Aug. 19, 2014
Membership in the CSP is open to artists from anywhere in the world who create hand-pulled prints. This includes artists who use traditional printmaking techniques, such as etching, lithography, relief printing, and silk screen. It also includes artists who make hybrid prints, monoprints, and artist books, so long as some hand printmaking is involved. Artists who use solely photographic or digital methods are not eligible for artist membership.
Artist Members are juried into the organization by a review committee of current and past members of the CSP Board.
An application for artist membership requires the following.
- 10 images of recent work (ideally within the last 3 years)
- Artist Bio (500 word count maximum)
- Artist Statement (500 word count maximum)
- Image list
- Optional Technical Note (500 word count maximum)
- $35 application fee (non-refundable)
Portfolio Requirements:
Please submit a cohesive body of similar work that demonstrates your personal vision, rather than a sampling of unrelated works. Images must be clear and of quality and demonstrate professional presentation. Submitted works must be current (within last three years).
Book artists should submit three books produced in the past three years. It is recommended that each Book project has a minimum of 3 images submitted for review. Books must include at least one original print that meets the criteria above.
Review Criteria:
In reviewing your work, we will look at the following factors:
- Whether work demonstrates a professional level of quality and a master proficiency in the medium submitted
- Whether work as a whole shows a consistent, well developed artistic vision.
- Images must be clear and of quality and demonstrate professional presentation.
Applicants will be notified within 30 days of the portfolio review deadline (June 1st and December 1st.) The $35 application fee is non-refundable. There is no limit on the number of times an artist may apply for membership.
California Society of Printmakers (CSP), a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is the oldest printmaking organization in the nation. Originally founded in 1912 as the California Society of Etchers, it reflected a surge of printmaking activity in both the West and nationally during the early part of the century. From its inception, membership has been open to printmakers around the world. In 1968 the California Society of Etchers merged with the Bay Area Printmakers to form the present California Society of Printmakers.
Student Membership.
Annual Dues $20. Application Fee $20.
Receives all the membership benefits of, and application process as the Artist Membership. Additional benefits are a reduced application fee, reduced annual dues, and fewer required work samples in submitted portfolio.
To be eligible for a student membership, one must be currently enrolled in a printmaking program with a college or university at the time of jurying. The goal of the student membership is to provide a financial break on application fees and yearly dues as well as a reduced work sample requirement to artists currently pursuing a degree in printmaking. In an effort to support printmakers transitioning from their degree programs to their individual studio practices, student membership will extend an additional two years past college graduation at both Bachelor’s and Master’s levels, after which time the member moves into the Artist Member category. Printmakers who have recently graduated and are not currently enrolled in another degree program must apply as an Artist Member.
With membership, students will be eligible for the following benefits:
Annual Members' Exhibition. CSP presents an annual non-juried exhibition for its Artist Members.
Juried Exhibitions. CSP also sponsors juried exhibitions for its Artist Members in a variety of venues. Although many are held in the Bay Area, others have been held throughout the country and internationally.
Artist Residencies. CSP sponsors a season of short residencies for two or three selected CSP members. Selections are made by Master Printmakers from around the Bay Area. Each Master Printer receives a stipend to support the work of the CSP member working in the area of specialty of the Master Printmaker.
CSP Members Listserv. CSP group email provides members with information on CSP events and exhibitions, artist opportunities and other information of interest to the membership. Members are encouraged to post information about their own exhibitions and other items of professional interest.
CSP Publications. Members receive The California Printmaker: The Journal of the California Society of Printmakers once a year; and the bi-monthly e-newsletter, Relevant Ink.
Member Events. The CSP presents informational panels, talks, and workshops several times a year, where members can learn about issues in printmaking and specific printmaking techniques. These events give members an opportunity to network and exchange professional expertise.
Annual Meeting. At the CSP Annual meeting, an invited speaker or artist panel discusses topics of interest to printmakers. The annual meeting also provides an opportunity for members to meet other print artists and supporters of the print arts, learn of upcoming CSP opportunities and programs, and share food and beverages in a lively, informal setting.
Website Portfolio. This is a self-managed artwork portfolio on the CSP website.
Kala Art Institute Discount. Take 10% off all classes and workshops. All CSP members are entitled to a special ongoing offer from KALA ART INSTITUTE. Located in West Berkeley, Kala offers some of the best printmaking and digital media classes in the Bay Area. Browse classes online at www.Kala.org. Then call Kala at 510-549-2977 to register and take advantage of the discount.
An application for student artist membership requires the following.
- 5 images of recent work (ideally within the last 3 years)
- Proof of enrollment in a college printmaking program
- Artist Bio (500-word count maximum)
- Artist Statement (500-word count maximum)
- Image list
- Optional Technical Note (500-word count maximum)
- $20 application fee (non-refundable)
Portfolio Requirements: We recommend that you submit a cohesive body of similar work that demonstrates your personal vision, rather than a sampling of unrelated works. Images must be clear and of quality and demonstrate professional presentation. Book artists should submit three books produced in the past three years. It is recommended that each Book project has a minimum of 3 images submitted for review. Books must include at least one original print that meets the criteria above.
Review Criteria: In reviewing your work, we will look at the following factors:
- Whether work demonstrates a level of proficiency in the medium submitted
- Whether work as a whole shows a consistent artistic vision.
- Images must be clear and of quality and demonstrate professional presentation.
Applicants will be notified within 30 days of the portfolio review deadline (June 1st and December 1st.) The $20 application fee is non-refundable. There is no limit on the number of times an artist may apply for membership.