BIG INK is an organized network of creative thinkers focused on promoting the art of large-scale woodblock printing. The program was started in 2012 by Directors Lyell Castonguay and Carand Burnet as a way to spread their passion for the medium with other artists and the general public. BIG INK works by establishing a temporary print shop on site at partnership organizations, most often at museums, universities, art centers, studios, and galleries. Artists are selected, either by personal invitation or through a call-for-entry process, to attend these events and print original woodblocks at least 24” x 36” in dimension. The community is invited to witness the sheer spectacle involved in creating these large-scale works.

CALL TO ARTISTS

CARVE YOUR LARGE-SCALE WOODBLOCK AND PRINT WITH BIG INK'S GIANT MOBILE PRESS

Call for Entry Booklet

BIG INK is hosting a weekend of monumental woodblock printing at Dedee Shattuck Gallery on June 4 & 5, 2022. We invite artists interested in carving a woodblock of at least 24 by 36 inches to participate.

DEADLINE TO APPLY: MARCH 28, 2022
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO APPLY, VISIT: BIGINK.ORG

First, you submit a design for consideration. If selected, you'll have two months to carve a woodblock based on your submission.  BIG INK will transform Sharon Art Studio into a print shop featuring The Big Tuna: our custom-designed giant mobile press. We'll invite the public to witness the spectacle of you and other participants printing together.  Our events blend elements of a workshop and a maker fair. It's a fun way to expand your skill set and engage with art appreciators. Bring your next big idea to life while participating in a one-of-a-kind print bonanza! 

Either a previously created image or a new concept is acceptable. No prior printmaking experience is necessary. You'll learn the process through a combination of online and in-person instruction.  We encourage all skill levels to apply.

Participation highlights include:

✔️ Access to BIG INK's online master class for 1-year

✔️ Speedball oil-based ink, Arnhem 1618 paper, and a 6” brayer

✔️ Columbia Forest Products 9” x 12” cherry plywood sample

✔️ Hands-on instruction during the event

✔️ Networking opportunities with other artists that live in your area

✔️ Three impressions from your woodblock, all of which you get to keep

Event Location: 1 Partners' Lane, Westport, MA 02790

Application Deadline: Midnight, March 28, 2022

Event: June 4 & 5, 2022 (one day in attendance will be assigned)

Max Woodblock Size: 40 by 96 inches