Innovation & Job News

East of broadsheet: A new non-profit communal printmaking workshop opens in Northern Liberties

Sue Spolan | Tuesday, January 04, 2011

Here's the thing about artists: they need space. Second State Press, a new fully outfitted non-profit communal printing facility that just opened in the Crane Arts Building in Northern Liberties, gives print makers plenty of room plus the tools to craft works of art in multiples.

In an age of digital duplicates, Second State goes old school. Techniques supported include intaglio, letterpress, relief, screen printing and lithography. Co-directors and Tyler School of Art alum Zach Lindenberger and Jennifer McTague returned to Philadelphia after living in New York City for several years. They worked for several communal printing organizations in Brooklyn and were frustrated by the lack of similar resources here. While Lindenberger and McTague found local photographer's collectives such as Project Basho, a printmaker's paradise was not yet a reality. Says Lindenberger, "We have four etching presses, two lithography presses, and a small function press." The cost of the equipment would be prohibitive for individuals, running between $5,000-$10,000. And Lindenberger adds that Second State keeps etching chemicals in stock that would not be safe to store in the home.

Second State is named for a printing technique where a previously etched plate is used again for another run. Lindenberger says the name also refers to Pennsylvania's status as the second state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Second State's mission is to "foster the development of ideas and innovation in printmaking by providing artists with a professional, affordable, and supportive workspace." A reasonable membership fee plus additional hourly rate provides access to all equipment, basic tools, and a place to work by the hour, month or year.

For 2011, Lindenberger and McTague plan on a schedule of classes, and while membership is encouraged, it will not be mandatory for students. Click here for information on upcoming educational programs.

Source: Zach Lindenberger, Second State Press
Writer: Sue Spolan

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East of broadsheet: A new non-profit communal printmaking workshop opens in Northern Liberties

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