The City in Print: Printmakers Showcase Their Work Around Town

Post by Emily Weerts

Austin's no stranger to the printed poster—in fact, between Flatstock and the East Austin Studio Tour, we get many chances to view and purchase original art by some very talented printmakers. This weekend, our affinity for all things screenprinted, letterpressed, linocut, and block printed is being even further catered to at various galleries around town.

Tonight, Gallery Lombardi will host the opening reception for "Inky and Stinky! The Handpulled Print Show". The exhibit, which runs through May 24th, will feature a variety of artists who work primarily in screenprinting or relief cut. Expect a different aesthetic than the prints typically seen at Flatstock; most of these artists print primarily in black and white and avoid the overly cute. Drive-By Press, a mobile printmaking studio, will be on hand at the reception doing live printing.

Most of the artists from the Gallery Lombardi show (plus many others), are participating in the Ink Slingas Ball Friday and Saturday at the United States Art Authority. This event, presented by the Creative Workers Union, promises prints under $50, beer, and music. Among the many prints you can purchase will be work by Smut, whose subversive wheatpasting we've been seeing around town.

Meanwhile, the Blanton is currently exhibiting "The Language of Prints," a collection of pieces from their permanent collection. Examples of work from Rembrandt to Lichtenstein are on display to offer an historical overview of printmaking. The Blanton show runs through August 17th.

"Inky and Stinky" Opening Reception Thursday, May 15 Gallery Lombardi (602 W. 7th St. Suite A) 7pm-10pm

Ink Slingas Ball May 16 & 17 United States Art Authority (2906 Fruth St.) Fri 6pm-11pm, Sat noon-6pm

The Language of Prints through August 17th The Blanton Museum of Art (200 E. MLK)