Centre for Fine Print Research

Research at the Centre for Fine Print Research (CFPR) is based on the production of the physical artefact, primarily predicated in print. All aspects of technology that relate to the core philosophy of making are central to this ethos.

This places the CFPR in an unusual position of understanding digital and new media technologies but always relating them to physical output and creativity. The CFPR has maintained and enhanced the quality of its work and built a world-wide reputation for research excellence. Our focus is on the close relationship that exists between technology, ideas and craft skills as understood in a visual environment. 
 
To quote the editor in chief of ‘wired’ magazine in an editorial article from 2010:

‘Here’s the history of two decades in one sentence. If the past ten years have been about discovering post-institutional models on the web, then the next ten years will be about applying them to the real world’

Although our research is primarily initiated from a visual perspective, it is inexorably linked to industrial development and new technologies. We have one of the most comprehensive sets of 2D and 3D printing, cutting, machining and fabrication hardware in the country.

By adapting to changing demand in the marketplace and the requirements of the user, we are able to conduct research that has direct application to industry, creative design, science and art.

The Centre’s long term vision is to capitalise on the strengths that have been built over the last 13 years: to work in new and innovative ways towards novel surface print, design and fabrication in 2 and 3 dimensions. Combining a multi-technology approach - using novel materials and processes to push forward new ideas and innovation. The key research themes are 3D rapid prototyping and colour - supported by artists books, wide format printing, laser cutting and collaboration with artists.

 

CFPR for you

Industry

The Centre for Fine Print Research has an outstanding track record in working with industry.  Our collaborative projects include Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP's) funded by the Technology Strategy Board, undertaking contract research to solve tricky problems for industry, consultancy projects and supporting start-up business. 
We are currently working with Hewlett Packard, Denby Pottery, Burleigh Pottery, Bits from Bytes, Renishaw, John Purcell Paper, St Cuthberts Mill, Polycarta, Viridis 3D, Cranfield Colours, Canon, Roland DG, Society of Dyers and Colourists, The British Museum, The Arnolfini, Oce,  Johnson Matthey and Dycem.
The research team have patented novel ceramic materials which are in the process of commercial exploitation. Find out more.

Academia

The Centre for Fine Print Research has links and partnerships with World leading institutions including University of Bristol, Bristol Robotics Laboratory, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Italy, Gjøvik University College Norway University of Leeds, University of Ulster in Belfast, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona Spain, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne France, Pannon University Hungary, AKI (ArtEz) Netherlands.

Artists, Printmakers and Studios

The Centre works collaboratively with high profile artists, studios, contemporary makers and galleries. CFPR Editions functions as a publishing studio of limited edition prints and multiples. The studio primarily publishes digital prints using technologies such as inkjet, UV, 3D printing and laser cutting.
The focus on new print technologies in the field of fine art printmaking places CFPR Editions within a unique area of the print publishing art market.
CFPR Editions

Limited Edition Prints for Sale:

We have been working with staff and MA Print students for almost 3 decades, to produce an annual show of limited edition prints, sponsored by John Purcell Paper.
Buy Mini Prints Online or at Foyles Bookshop, Bristol.