BIG INK features over a dozen woodcut prints created last month by artists throughout New England.  Each print is at least 24" x 36" in dimension.  BIG INK will be on exhibit the month of July at the Loft Parlor, 180 Pleasant St. Third Floor in Easthampton, 10-5 pm Mon-Fri. An artist reception and large woodcut printing demo will be held during ArtHampton: July Art Walk Easthampton at 5-8pm at the Loft Parlor. Lyell Castonguay, director of BIG INK, will demonstrate how to print several large woodcuts, including a new woodcut by Chris Millette.  The community is invited to participate in the printing process by inking, hand rubbing, and pulling prints with the artists.  This event is free and family friendly.

BIG INK is a collaborative project that encourages the practice and understanding of large woodcut.  Artists are invited to submit a proposal to create a woodcut, at least 24” x 36” in dimension, via an open call for entry.  If accepted, artists are given two months to carve their image into a piece of plywood.  Castonguay remains in contact with the artists providing guidance and technical support when needed.  At the end of the two months, Castonguay schedules a printing session at a local print studio, such as Zea Mays Printmaking, where all the artists meet and help another print their woodcut onto paper.  Typically between 10 - 15 hand pulled prints are produced during each printing session.

To date, BIG INK has helped over twenty artists create new work.  Each artist donates one print to the BIG INK portfolio. Castonguay curates shows from this portfolio at different galleries and art institutions.  Previous venues include the Northampton Center for the Arts, the Sanford Gallery at Zea Mays Printmaking, and the Geissler Gallery at Stoneleigh Burham School.  Monumental prints inspire artists and the public alike to think big and have the perseverance to see their concepts to fruition.

Calls for entry are on a rolling basis and occur several times a year.  Previous woodcut experience is helpful but not necessary.  If you would like to submit an application please visit lyellcastonguay.com/apply for further information.