Dr Paul Thirkell

Professional Practice

3D2D3D: Object and Illusion in Print

Place: Edinburgh Printmakers Gallery, Norske Grafikere, Oslo, Norway
Curated By: Dr Paul Thirkell
Date: 18.9-30.10.10, 01.11
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Abstract:
There has long been a close relationship between the second and third dimension in the field of Printmaking. Connoisseurs and printmakers frequently describe how the rich surface qualities of (for example) the etched emboss, the raised trace of the relief block, or the layered impasto of a screen print – serve to enhance the impact of a 2D image, creating something more akin to an object than a mere visual illusion on a flat surface. Many traditional artists printing techniques in fact share similar principles and conventions to those of sculpture for moulding, processing, casting and being produced in multiple. In recent years new digital techniques for printing have enhanced the printmakers palette, however, prints produced through digital output have remained largely in the 2D realm.

Currently a new era is dawning with print based, Rapid Prototype technologies gradually coming within the reach of the fine artist. This exhibition proposes to investigate the dual possibilities of creatively engaging with digital software and hardware to produce data that can be printed in both 2D and 3D. To explore this new transition, a selection of artists currently working in the field have been selected to produce printed images and related printed objects that reveal new insights into image and object making through print. For the exhibition each artist will produce both a 2D (digital print) and a 3D printed object that in some way sets up a relationship or an interaction between the 2 dimensions.

Committed to Print

Place: Royal West of England Academy, Northern Print Gallery, London Print Studios, IMPACT 6 conference, UWE
Curated By: Dr Paul Thirkell
Date: 2007-2009
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Abstract:
The exhibition Committed to Print features a selection of artwork that has been produced through the use of new, print related technology. Each of the artists featured have collaborated with researchers from CFPR in producing their prints for the show. The exhibition featured works by world renowned artist Richard Hamilton, emerging artists such as Susan Collins, Paul Hodgson, Neeta Madahar and CFPR artist/researchers Steve Hoskins, Paul Laidler, Carinna Parraman, Brendan Reid, Paul Sandameer.

TNUA Collotype Workshop and Lecture series

Place: TNUA press, Taiwan
led By: Dr Paul Thirkell
Date: 2009
Catalogue ISBN: 978-986-01-8790-8
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Abstract:
Dr Paul Thirkell was invited by the Taiwanese National University of the Arts to host a collotype workshop and lecture series for the universities printmaking students and invited guests from the Taiwanese printmaking community. These events took place in February 2009 and as a result TNUA published Collotype Workshop 09.
A book publication coming out of a Collotype workshop and lecture series held at the Taiwan National Academy, Taiwan. This output is based on out of ongoing research done by Thirkell into the collotype printing process.