A Study of the Role of the Master Printmaker at Edinburgh Printmakers

The Master Printmaker is at the heart of the print workshop maintaining traditional techniques as well as developing and experimenting with new approaches to print practice. My research, focusing on Edinburgh Printmakers’ Studio Director Alastair Clark, reveals the complexities of the traditional role of Master Printmaker, as well as the impact of the rapid development of digital technology. This paper explores the collaborative process of the Master Printmaker and reflects on his working partnership with a selection of artists. These artists include Callum Innes, Eric Great-­‐Rex and Rachel Maclean. The selection represents established artists with an ongoing collaborative partnership with the Master Printmaker, experienced printmakers pushing the boundaries of their practice and artists new to print studio practice.