Prints Really Are Like That

Stopping by Gallery 1313 for the opening of its latest show, 'Prints Are Like That,' was an eye-opening experience. I realized that I've been almost completely unaware of the diversity - be it related to method or result -- of printmaking. When I think about it, my only firsthand knowledge of printmaking was back in grade 10 art class when I butchered up some linoleum for ink prints that looked (unintentionally) like Rorschach tests. Thankfully, visitors to this show are spared such a viewing experience - you know, the one only a mother could love.

But that's not to say there weren't a few mothers (and fathers) at "Prints Are Like That.' As the end-of-year show for OCAD's printmaking class, the scent of emergence and excitement was percolating throughout the room. Although not the first show for the artists featured at Gallery 1313, being the culmination of the educational element of some of their careers, it was easy to spot the family members out to support them. Call me conservative, but these days I like that. I've been at too many shows populated solely by one demographic - be that twenty-something hipsters or fifty-something academics. To me, a mix is pretty desirable -- particularly because I'm something of a chimera when it comes to these two groups.

Forgetting the scene of the opening, the stuff on the walls is pretty darn stimulating. Of the numerous things that stuck out to me, one of particular note is that so few pieces are alike. Perhaps that shouldn't be surprising. But, going in, I assumed that a show of prints would reveal certain similarities and commonalities between the artists' work. In fact, it's quite the opposite: the guiding principle of the show is to highlight the immense differences in what printmakers are producing these days.

Indeed, a lot of what I saw didn't really look like 'prints.' Shows you what I know.

Prints Are Like That runs through April 12, in the Main and Process Galleries at Gallery 1313.