Jack Bullen on Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair's Ninth Edition
Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair © 2024
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As the UK’s largest contemporary print fair, Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair (WCPF) is a vital date in the calendar for printmakers and collectors of the medium. Since its inception in 2015, it has earned a reputation as a hub of innovation, discovery, and accessibility in the art world. Running from November 21–24, 2024, this year’s fair promises to showcase the best of both emerging and established talent in printmaking to an ever-growing network.
At the helm is Jack Bullen, a printmaker and advocate for bringing art to a wider audience. Jack and his wife, Lizzie Glendinning, co-founded WCPF with a clear vision: to create a space where the dynamic potential of printmaking could shine and where the barriers of traditional art fairs - financial and cultural - could be broken down. With visitor numbers quadrupling since its launch, WCPF is proof of the rising interest in prints as both a collectible and a medium of artistic expression.
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A Vision for Accessible and Innovative Printmaking
For Jack and Lizzie, the decision to focus exclusively on contemporary prints came from a desire to fill a gap in the art fair market. Their model combines gallery representation with an international open call for independent artists. This creates a unique synergy at the fair, with artworks by emerging names placed side-by-side with prints from established artists such as David Shrigley and Julian Opie.
Unlike traditional fairs, WCPF does not separate galleries from independent artists. Instead, the two groups are interspersed throughout the venue, encouraging visitors to discover new talent alongside blue chip names. The approach not only supports emerging talent but also challenges the traditional hierarchy of the art world.
A Growing Community in a Revitalised Woolwich
The transformation of Woolwich itself mirrors the evolution of WCPF. Originally housed in a derelict building, the fair has grown alongside the regeneration of the Royal Arsenal area. Woolwich Works now provides an impressive industrial setting for the event, complete with state-of-the-art facilities. Improved transport links, including the Elizabeth Line, have also made the fair more accessible to visitors from across London and beyond. By rooting the fair in this evolving community, WCPF has positioned itself as not just an art event but a destination experience that celebrates the intersection of art, history, and urban renewal.
Why Printmaking? A Medium for Everyone
At the heart of WCPF’s ethos is a commitment to showcasing printmaking as an accessible and versatile medium. Jack described printmaking as a “gateway” for new collectors, thanks to its approachable price points and the wide variety of works available. With pieces starting at just a few hundred pounds and ranging up to blue-chip editions priced in the tens of thousands, there is truly something for every budget.
Beyond affordability, the fair highlights the unique qualities of printmaking that set it apart from other art forms. Printmaking’s collaborative nature - where artists often work together in studios and share equipment - creates a sense of community that resonates with both creators and collectors. WCPF mirrors this spirit by fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where visitors can engage directly with the art-making process.
The fair’s interactive workshops and live demonstrations further enhance this engagement. Visitors can try their hand at techniques such as screen printing, etching, and relief printing, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship involved. These activities not only demystify the technical aspects of printmaking but also inspire attendees to view the medium as a dynamic and innovative art form.
Highlights of WCPF 2024
This year’s edition of WCPF promises an eclectic mix of works that push the boundaries of what printmaking can achieve. Among the standout artists featured this year, according to Bullen, are:
- Sergio Suarez, whose woodblock prints reimagine classical themes through a contemporary lens.
- Mohammad Barrangi, a former Paralympian who takes inspiration from medieval Iranian palaces while incorporating playful, interactive elements.
- Natalia Mustafa, an RCA graduate whose conceptual approach to printmaking challenges traditional notions of the medium.
In addition to these artists, WCPF showcases a growing number of sculptural and digitally influenced works, reflecting the ongoing evolution of print as a medium. These pieces challenge conventional ideas about scale, technique, and materiality, demonstrating the limitless possibilities of printmaking.
Talks and Events: Expanding the Conversation with Prints
The WCPF 2024 program is packed with events designed to engage and educate audiences. Central to this offering is the fair’s diverse lineup of talks and panel discussions, which provide valuable insights into the art world and the printmaking process.
The New Collectors Evening is a particular highlight, offering a relaxed and welcoming environment for those new to art collecting. Complete with a DJ, drinks, and live demonstrations, this event aims to break down the barriers that can make the art world feel intimidating to newcomers.
Other notable talks include Women in Print, which celebrates the contributions of female artists to the field, and Motherhood & Making, which explores the challenges of balancing artistic practice with family life. These discussions reflect WCPF’s commitment to addressing important social issues within the context of the art world.
The fair also hosts panels such as The Art of Collecting: Original Prints, featuring leading voices in the art market, and Creative For Good, which delves into the importance of diversity and inclusion in the creative industries. Together, these events enrich the fair experience, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the themes shaping contemporary printmaking.
Supporting Emerging Talent
One of WCPF’s defining features is its dedication to supporting emerging artists. The international open call is a cornerstone of this mission, providing a platform for independent artists to showcase their work alongside established names.
The process begins each spring, with artists invited to submit their works for consideration. A rigorous selection process ensures that the final roster represents the best of contemporary printmaking, with hundreds of pieces chosen for display. For many artists, participation in WCPF serves as a launching pad for their careers, offering invaluable exposure and networking opportunities.
Beyond the fair itself, WCPF provides year-round support to its artists. Initiatives such as affordable framing services, regional drop-off points, and logistical assistance for international exhibitors reduce the financial and logistical barriers to participation. These efforts reflect the fair’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and inclusive printmaking community.
Looking Ahead to the Tenth Edition: A Decade of Print
As WCPF approaches its 10th anniversary in 2025, plans are already in motion to celebrate this milestone with expanded offerings and new initiatives. The fair aims to double its size, incorporating larger installations and outdoor exhibits to accommodate its growing audience and artist base.
Looking further ahead, Jack and his team are exploring opportunities for international collaboration. Inspired by their experiences at events like the Venice Biennale, they hope to bring WCPF’s unique model to a global stage, further elevating the profile of contemporary printmaking.
At its core, however, WCPF remains committed to its founding principles: making art accessible, championing emerging talent, and celebrating the boundless creativity of the printmaking medium.
Where to Find WCPF 2024
The Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair runs from November 21–24, 2024, at Woolwich Works. Day tickets start at £15, with discounts available for concessions and special events like the New Collectors Evening.
For tickets and more information, visit woolwichprintfair.com or follow the fair on Instagram at @woolwichcontemporaryprintfair.
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