In embarking on a show about printmaking, The Church in Sag Harbor identified three specific organizing criteria for its latest exhibition, “Master Impressions: Artists and Printers on the South Fork.” First, that the artist spent time on the South Fork in some notable way. Second, that the artwork is the culmination of a relationship between the printer(s) and the artist. Third, that the resulting work is of exceptional quality, showcasing either the capabilities of the medium, the characteristics of works for which the artist is known, or both.
The 27 objects selected display the rich diversity of traditional printmaking methods and approaches as well as the unique properties of the medium. Curated by Samuel Havens, The Church’s Workshop and Residency Manager and a printmaker in his own right, the show explores the collaborative nature of printmaking and demonstrates how artists, printers, and the press can achieve results that surpass the individual expertise of those involved. Havens did extensive research into the printers involved to highlight their expertise and essential role in the making of these objects, as well as their roles in the East End community of artists and art making.
Artists to be featured include stalwarts like Elaine de Kooning, Connie Fox, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Motherwell, and Alfonso Ossorio; those with surprising ties to the East End like Hale Woodruff, Romare Bearden, James Rosenquist, and Jasper Johns; artists with pivotal roles in the advancement of the medium like Abraham Rattner and Dan Welden; and other discoveries and surprises.
Of the exhibition, Havens said, “As a printmaker, I know the magic of the press and I am excited to share this exhibition that celebrates the medium. The works in this show continue The Church’s characteristic way of exploring and examining the bounty of the East End within the global context of contemporary art.”
An opening reception will be held on Saturday, January 13, from 6 to 7:30 PM. The exhibition will run from January 14 to February 25. Visit thechurchsagharbor.org.