Spike Print Fair launches in partnership with UWE Bristol

Printmakers working across all techniques and formats are invited to apply to exhibit at a new three-day printmaking fair at Spike Island from 24 – 26 July.

Spike Print Fair, an initiative by Spike Island and Spike Print Studio, is presented in partnership with UWE Bristol’s School of Arts and Centre for Print Research (CFPR).

The call for exhibitors is now open, with stalls available at a range of prices. Stallholders will be selected by a panel of representatives from Spike Island, Spike Print Studio, and UWE Bristol’s CFPR.

Bringing together independent printmakers and small presses, Spike Print Fair will transform Spike Island - the home to UWE Bristol’s BA and MA Fine Art courses - into a vibrant marketplace for contemporary print, offering visitors the chance to buy original works directly from artists.

Dr Jacqueline Butler, Dean and Head of School, UWE Bristol School of Arts, said: “The UWE Bristol School of Arts is proud to collaborate on Spike Print Fair, celebrating Bristol’s internationally recognised print community and some of the UK’s leading printmakers, sharing regional excellence on a national level. Through our partnership with Spike Island and Spike Print Studio, and the pioneering expertise of the Centre for Print Research, we’re excited to create new opportunities for artists, makers and audiences to champion the region’s vibrant print culture.”

The event is part of Spike Island 50 – an anniversary year celebrating five decades since the founding of Artspace Bristol in 1976. This experiment in creativity led to the vibrant creative ecosystems that continue to thrive at Spike Island and Spike Print Studio today.

This fair is the inaugural edition of what is planned as an annual event that will continue to support artists, develop artistic communities, connect all areas of Bristol with world leading contemporary art, and celebrate the artistic vibrancy within Bristol. Spike Print Fair will expand Spike Island’s commitment to supporting artists’ livelihoods and creating accessible routes for audiences to engage with contemporary printmaking.

The fair will showcase a wide range of print practices, from traditional techniques to experimental and contemporary approaches.

The deadline to apply is 13 April. More information is available on the Spike Island website.