Salem, Massachusetts (Apr. 24, 2020) - Salem State University's art department will host a special demonstration celebrating the ancient art of printmaking with contemporary themes and a one-of-a-kind super-sized woodblock printing press on April 24st. The event is free and open to the public from 11 am to 4 pm.

BIG INK, LLC, a New Hampshire based woodblock printmaking education organization will print large-scale woodblocks on BIG INK's one-of-a-kind press. The press, nicknamed "The Big Tuna," prints hand-carved woodblocks reaching nearly 4 by 8 feet in dimension. BIG INK travels across the US with their custom-built press, helping artist teams print at designated stops along the way. BIG INK’s Director Lyell Castonguay. explains “Our workshop demonstration at Salem State furthers our mission to inspire a greater appreciation for large-scale woodblock printmaking and extend its practice."

The press will be set up inside the art department building. The audience experience planned for the day includes large-scale printing, an exhibition of woodblock prints available for sale, and a hands-on community art making activity. Volunteers will assist the public in inking pre-carved plates and printing on BIG INK's other more miniature press.

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About Salem State: Salem State is committed to liberal arts heritage, academic freedom, equity and access, affordability, inclusivity, social justice, student-centeredness, and a sense of community that gives it a small-college feel in a university setting.

About BIG INK: BIG INK, LLC facilitates large-scale woodblock printmaking events at galleries, art centers, universities, and museums across the country. To learn more visit: https://www.bigink.org/