Pori Printmakers Association 10th Anniversary Exhibition

Cu+

In December 2003, the Pori Printmakers Association celebrated its 10th anniversary and is now marking the occasion with a larger exhibition at the Poriginal Gallery. Over a dozen printmakers are participating, ranging from more established artists to recently graduated young creators. The works showcase a wide range of printmaking techniques, from traditional etching to more modern digital methods. The themes of the pieces vary widely from one artist to another, though nature seems to be a common source of inspiration for many. The exhibition is named Cu+, referring to copper, the material onto which most of the metal etching works are etched. 
The exhibition at Poriginal Gallery is curated by Esko Nummelin, the acting director of the Pori Art Museum.

The Pori Printmakers Association was founded on December 1, 1993, in Pori, with six founding members. As of early 2003, the membership had grown to 29, with all members having formal graphic arts education. The “Paja & Galleria” exhibition space was established in 1995, and the workspace is located at Valtakatu 22, Pori. Every year, the “Print of the Year” is chosen, and an exhibition grant is awarded to a young graduate graphic artist.
The association’s invitational exhibitions have featured prominent Finnish graphic artists such as Juho Karjalainen in 2000 and Pentti Kaskipuro in 2003.

Workshops have been organized for both members and the public, including courses on photo-etching and icon painting for members, as well as etching and aquatint for outsiders. Particularly, Pori’s cultural youth have benefited from the workshops, where they have worked under guidance, and university students have been given lectures on printmaking techniques.

Various associations have visited the gallery, including printmaking associations and school classes. Collaborations have been made with schools, such as the “twin school” in Väharauma, for organizing exhibitions. The association has also worked with the Pori Art Museum, including through patronage membership. The museum is also a supporter member of the Pori Printmakers Association. Collaboration with other artist associations has been carried out, such as a joint exhibition project. The association has consistently participated in the “Joy and Light” event organized by the Satakunta Arts Committee, including in the “magic forest” workshop project in late summer 2003.

The association receives valuable support from the Pori City Cultural Committee, which helps with rent expenses. Another important supporter is the State Art Council, which awarded a grant in 2004 (3500 €) for exhibition activities and workshop development.

Pori Printmakers Association is a member of the Finnish Visual Artists Association, which advocates for artists’ interests nationwide. The association regularly participates in its meetings, and several of its members have been selected for SKJL exhibitions. The association has been organizing supporter membership activities for eight years, and the “Print of the Year” has been selected each year. The Printmakers also participated in the association fair at the cotton factory in 2000.

This text was created with AI assistance