An impression in print

The art of printmaking is witnessing an upward swing and artists in Goa are finding this genre of art viable, both in terms of creativity and commercial value.

Originating in China in 105 AD, the ancient art of printmaking/graphic art found favour across the globe with European masters like

Rembrandt

and Goya. Although embraced in India around the 20th century, Goa was introduced to printmaking as early as 1556 with the advent of the first lithography machine in India. But the art form remained relatively obscure in Goa, up until a decade ago, when it began witnessing an upsurge.

Carried forward by a committed community of versatile artists like Hanuman Kambli and Viraj Naik among others, over the years, particularly since the 1970s, the art form has not only evolved, but recently received a fillip with a national recognition for Swapnesh

Vaigankar

’s graphic print ‘Voyage’ by the Lalit Kala Akademi (2016).

“Printmaking was the backbone of art in Goa with the arrival of the first lithography machine here. Although widely practised in India and around the globe, the awareness and importance of this art form is yet to be fully realised in Goa. Being a touristic place, Goa can easily become a hub for printmaking art,” asserts Swapnesh Vaigankar.

Citing it as one of the most popular mediums around the world, graphic artist and professor, department of printmaking, Goa College of Art, Hanuman Kambli, says, “Its inherent quality is that it has a universal appeal and can reach hundreds of people. It has been taught at the college since inception in 1978 and although it demands rigorous practice and skill, many students are now opting for it. If one is dedicated to the art, then it can be commercially viable as well.”

Chosen for the unique qualities that each printmaking process lends to itself rather than the sole ability to produce multiple impressions, several artists have been turning to printmaking, interlinking various techniques like digital and litho or dry point and etching to achieve the desired effect. The acquisition of more etching presses has paved the way for more artists to practise this art form.

“Technically when plates are etched, there is 10

times

the possibility of giving softness to the work of art. With acid bites you can have 100 variations from one print. But ultimately the outcome depends on the sentiment and expression of the artist. Printmaking is an intricate process, but a flexible one too. It is a self-styled art in which the artist explores its various dimensions. But the softness of the visual is important. In printmaking the technique is the same for every artist, but it’s their individualistic expression that will define the work,” explains artist Viraj Naik, whose various experimentations led to the finesse his graphic art is now internationally acclaimed for.

Decried as a minor art that produces mere copies, the uniqueness of printmaking has been defended by artists and discerning art lovers alike. “Each can be an exclusive edition or one plate can be used for different creations. Print art can be as exclusive and expensive as regular art,” says Naik.
“Every print is an original print,” Kambli concurs.

Today several workshops and exhibitions are helping to bust misconceptions and give the print/graphic art form the recognition it deserves. But, as artists point out, much needs to be done to give it the recognition it deserves. “Goan printmakers are doing their best to take this art to a higher level. There are around seven private etching presses in Goa and the establishment of a Goan studio by the department of art and culture is a good move,” says Vaigankar, who earnestly hopes the government will take more initiatives in terms of

international

residencies and seminars and a MFA to increase the level of education and awareness of this exquisite art form.

INKING TECHNIQUES
Prints are created by transferring ink from a matrix to a sheet of paper or other material. Common types of matrices include metal plates, generally copper or zinc, or polymer plates for engraving or etching; stone, aluminium, or polymer for lithography; blocks of wood for woodcuts and wood engravings; and linoleum for linocuts. Screens made of silk or synthetic fabrics are used for thes creen printing process.