Podcast · Arts & Books

Platemark: prints and the printmaking ecosystem

by Ann Shafer, fine art prints evangelist, curator, and art historian · English · Arts & Books

Why do fine art prints (etchings, woodcuts, lithographs, screenprints, etc.) and printmaking draw such fervent practitioners, collectors, and fans? Find out how prints were the first internet disseminating images since the mid-15th century. Find out why it takes a village to make, sell, study, and c

New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 1 hr 5 min
Latest: 13 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

13 Oct 2026 · 58 minNew

s2e39 History of Prints Giovanni Battista Piranesi (part one)

Step into the grand, shadowy, and endlessly inventive world of Giovanni Battista Piranesi. In this episode, Ann and Tru explore the extraordinary life and legacy of the 18th-century master printmaker, architect, and polemicist whose sweeping etchings of Rome and terrifyingly surreal Carceri (Prisons) series continue to captivate the imagination. Join us as they examine Piranesi's Venetian roots, his fierce contributions to the Greco-Roman design debates, his enduring influence on figures like Goethe, and the vital artistic legacy of his daughter, Laura Piranesi, in this deep dive into the…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S3 · E118 · 6 Oct 2026 · 1 hr 13 min
s3e118 55+ years of selling prints with dealer Daniel Lienau
Join host Ann Shafer on this episode of Platemark for a captivating journey through more than 55 years in the print world with Daniel Lienau, owner of The Annex Galleries in Santa Rosa, California. From his serendipitous beginnings at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Berkeley to studying under unorthodox educators like Janet Turner, Daniel shares a lifetime of wisdom on print dealing, collection management, and the evolution of the gallery business. Tune in as we discuss his early digital footprint connecting Santa Rosa to a global audience, the cultural significance of print history,…
S3 · E117 · 22 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 15 min
s3e117 exquisite wood engraving and illustrated books with Barry Moser
Join us on this episode of Platemark for a captivating and deeply personal conversation with the legendary artist, illustrator, and master printmaker Barry Moser. Reflecting on a career defined by extraordinary craftsmanship and intellectual curiosity, Barry shares stories from his beginnings in Chattanooga, his transition from preaching to an ever-questioning artistic life, and the philosophy behind his monumental Pennyroyal Press editions of classics like Alice in Wonderland and the Bible. Tune in as we explore his profound dedication to teaching, his resilience in adapting his process…
S3 · E116 · 8 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 11 min
s3e116 framing deep dive with Thoren Vadala
In this episode of Platemark , Ann Shafer sits down with master framer Thoren Vadala of Make-A-Frame Atlantic to explore the meticulous, often overlooked world of picture framing. From the technical realities of custom woodworking versus manufactured MDF to conservation standards like cotton rag mats and UV-filtering glass, Thoren breaks down what it truly takes to protect and elevate a work of art on paper. Tune in for an engaging discussion on framing philosophy, avoiding the trap of standard black-and-white presentation, and why early collaboration between artists and framers makes all…
S3 · E115 · 1 Sep 2026 · 55 min
s3e115 creativity and freedom with cultural strategist Laura Raicovich
Host Ann Shafer talks with Laura Raicovich about creativity, resistance, and alternative cultural spaces. They talk about Laura's pioneering museum leadership, her upcoming fine jewelry line Istria Napoli, and her fearless advocacy for artistic freedom outside traditional institutional boundaries. From exploring the legacy of the Queens Museum to reimagining sustainable cultural infrastructures like the Francis Kite Club, Laura shares an inspiring roadmap for anyone looking to build a versatile, impact-driven creative life.
S3 · E114 · 25 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 5 min
s3e114 Live from the McNay Print Fair: James Stroud and the Art of Collaboration
Celebrate a milestone with Platemark as we record our first-ever live episode at the 30th anniversary of the McNay Print Fair. Host Ann Shafer is joined by master printer James Stroud (Center Street Studio) to explore the fascinating, high-stakes world of the print shop. From Jim's formative years with Stanley William Hayter at Atelier 17 to modern-day collaborations with artists like Markus Linnenbrink, this episode goes deep into the technical "magic" and the unique creative chemistry that occurs when an artist's vision meets a printer's expertise. Discover why printmaking is more than…
S3 · E113 · 11 Aug 2026 · 54 min
s3e113 Parasol Press deep dive with curator Rachel Vogel
What happens when a visionary publisher collaborates with minimalist and conceptual giants like Chuck Close, Agnes Martin, and Dorothea Rockburne? In this episode, host Ann Shafer sits down with Rachel Vogel, Assistant Curator at the Addison Gallery of American Art, to explore the monumental legacy of Parasol Press. Rachel shares the behind-the-scenes stories of curating the exhibition Parasol Press: Breaking New Ground , diving into the innovative vision of founder Bob Feldman, the intricate technical synergy between artists and printers, and how this iconic press fundamentally revitalized…
S3 · E112 · 28 Jul 2026 · 56 min
s3e112 the business and heart of Lower East Side Printshop with Executive Director Marie Tennyson
In this episode of Platemark, host Ann Shafer sits down with Marie Tennyson, Executive Director of the Lower East Side Printshop who shares her inspiring journey from starting at Universal Limited Art Editions (ULAE) at age 22 to championing one of New York City's most vital artistic hubs. Discover the rich history of the Lower East Side Printshop—born during a 1968 teachers' strike—and learn how it continues to provide affordable studio space, foster emerging talent, and invite artists of all backgrounds to experience the collaborative magic of printmaking. Tune in for an engaging…
S3 · E111 · 14 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 7 min
s3e111 history, art, and social change with Jenny Schmid
In this episode of Platemark, we sit down with exceptional artist, printmaker, animator, and educator Jenny Schmid for a thought-provoking discussion on the intersections of history, art, and activism. We explore how historical figures like Käthe Kollwitz and José Posada influence Jenny's contemporary practice, delve into her fascinating project "Disembodied Reembodied," and celebrate the vital role of the Minnesota printmaking community in resisting oppressive systems. Jenny also shares a glimpse into her upcoming work examining midwifery, witch accusations, and women's labor history. Show…
S3 · E110 · 30 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
s3e110 engraving currency and stamps with Tom Hipschen
Ever wonder about the incredible artistry hiding in your wallet? In this episode, Ann sits down with Tom Hipschen, a former master engraver at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing who spent nearly four decades crafting the very banknotes and postage stamps we handle every day. Tom takes us behind the scenes of his extraordinary career—from his grueling decade-long apprenticeship and serving as the lead picture engraver for the $20 bill, to engraving over 130 US postage stamps. We delve into the fascinating intersection of centuries-old hand engraving, cutting-edge anti-counterfeiting…
S3 · E109 · 16 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 17 min
s3e109 building a global print community with Reinaldo Gil Zambrano
In this episode, host Ann Shafer sits down with Venezuelan-born artist and educator Reinaldo Gil Zambrano. Based in Spokane, Washington, Reinaldo is a relief printmaking specialist whose work explores themes of home, heritage, and the universal human experience. As an Assistant Professor at Gonzaga University and co-founder of the Spokane Print and Publishing Center, Reinaldo discusses his commitment to "democratic" art-making and his role as a bilingual bridge-builder in the global print community. From his early education at United World College to his recent solo museum debut, Reinaldo…
S3 · E108 · 2 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 13 min
s3e108 casting metal type with Val Lucas
In this episode, host Ann Shafer sits down with Val Lucas, the artist and master printer behind Bowerbox Press. From her early shift from painting to printmaking at MICA to her current work casting custom metal type and ornaments, Val shares her journey through the tactile, meticulous world of letterpress. We dive into the technical evolution of the craft—balancing traditional handset type with modern polymer plates—and discuss the vibrant, tight-knit community of women preserving this historic art form. Join us for a deep dive into the patience, machinery, and artistry required to keep the…
S2 · E38 · 26 May 2026 · 47 min
s2e38 History of Prints The Venetians (part three) the Tiepolos
In s2e38, Ann and Tru continue their History-of-Prints conversation about Venice in the 18th century. This is part three of three in which we talk about father and son, Giovanni Battista Tiepolo and Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo. Shift your gaze from the canals to the clouds as we explore the whimsical, light-filled world of Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. A master of the Rococo, Tiepolo brought a sense of effortless spontaneity to his etchings, moving his needle with the fluidity of a pen. We break down his transition into the world of "Scherzi di Fantasia," where mythical scenes and fantastical…
S3 · E107 · 19 May 2026 · 1 hr 4 min
s3e107 building an alternative art school with Nato Thompson
What happens when you trade a job at Kinko's for a career as one of the art world's most provocative curators? In this episode, Ann sits down with the legendary Nato Thompson to explore how he navigates the complex intersections of community, culture, and the "art ecosystem." They dive into his latest mission—The Alternative Art School—where he is dismantling the myth of the solitary genius and building a global, accessible sanctuary for creatives. From the rise and fall of NFT hype to the deeply collaborative parallels between his work and the printmaking community, Nato shares why lean-in…
S2 · E37 · 12 May 2026 · 40 min
s2e37 History of Prints The Venetians (part two) Canaletto
In s2e37, Ann and Tru continue their History-of-Prints conversation about Venice in the 18th century. This is part two of three in which we talk about Canaletto. While often remembered as a topographical painter of postcards, Canaletto was, in fact, a master of curated reality. In this segment, they examine how Canaletto transformed the ordinary streets and canals of Venice into grand, cinematic scenes. Whether using the camera obscura to manipulate perspective or painting en plein air , he captured the "Venetian Vibe" with a meticulous yet lively brush. We take a deep dive into his Capricci…
S3 · E106 · 5 May 2026 · 1 hr 7 min
s3e106 wheatpasting and engraving with David Barthold
David Barthold's journey as a printmaker began at age 13, took him through the legendary studio of Atelier 17 in Paris, and eventually led to a hiatus that ended in a burst of lino-cut street art during the pandemic. In this episode, we explore the life and work of a native New Yorker who refuses to stay in one lane. We dig into his early start learning under Ruth Leaf as a teenager and honing his craft at Oberlin and in France; printmaking as protest and how the pandemic pushed David out of the studio and onto the streets of Park Slope, using wheat-pasted portraits of figures like RBG and…
S2 · E36 · 28 Apr 2026 · 49 min
s2e36 History of Prints The Venetians (part one) Preamble
Step into the sun-drenched world of 18th-century Venice as we explore the "theatrical splendor" that defined an era. In this episode, Ann and resident expert Tru Ludwig dive into the vibrant Venetian art scene, where the city itself served as both a stage and a muse. We set the scene by discussing the transition from the heavy Baroque style to the airy, spontaneous Rococo and the rise of the "Grand Tour." Discover why 18th-century Venice wasn't just a destination, but a living, breathing entity where reality and imagination blurred through the medium of etching, catering to a new generation…
S3 · E105 · 21 Apr 2026 · 1 hr 5 min
S3e105 rare books meet heavy machinery with Amelia Hugill-Fontanel
What happens when a rare book library is also a working machine shop? This week, Ann sits down with the formidable Amelia Hugill-Fontanel, Associate Curator at the Cary Graphic Arts Collection at RIT. Amelia isn't just a keeper of history; she's a "press fixer" who maintains a fleet of functional 19th-century printing presses. We dive into the incredible legacy of Melbert B. Cary Jr., the intersection of historical type and 3D-printing innovation, and the inspiring rise of women in the traditionally "macho" world of iron hand presses. Whether you're a letterpress obsessive or a curious…
S3 · E104 · 7 Apr 2026 · 1 hr 3 min
s3e104 carborundum collagraphy with Betty Winkler
In this episode of Platemark, Ann sits down with Betty Winkler to explore her dual career as a master of carborundum collagraphy and a dedicated art therapist. They dive into her technical innovations—such as her preference for plexiglass plates—and discuss her book, which aims to demystify this tactile, non-toxic printmaking method. Betty shares how her background in the collaborative world of the print studio seamlessly informs her work in therapy, viewing both as powerful tools for communication and healing. From the grit of the carborundum to the deep emotional layers of trauma therapy,…
S3 · E103 · 24 Mar 2026 · 1 hr 6 min
s3e103 release the Wolfbat with Dennis McNett
Get ready to leave the white-cube gallery behind. In our latest episode, we're stepping into the wild, mythic world of Dennis McNett (AKA Wolfbat). For over 30 years, Dennis has been carving out a career that defies every "standard" artistic path. Dennis doesn't just make art—he builds universes. He is a modern-day storyteller who reminds us that when you combine woodcuts with community and a bit of "Wolfbat" energy, art has the power to transform entire towns. Wolfbat Studios IG: @wolfbat Show me the images !!
S3 · E102 · 10 Mar 2026 · 1 hr 11 min
s3e102 Seoul to West Texas with Sangmi Yoo
In this episode, Ann sits down with Sangmi Yoo—artist, educator, and Professor of Printmaking at Texas Tech—to discuss how she navigates the "in-between." Her work isn't just about ink on paper; it's about how we build our identities out of architecture, memory, and the ghosts of colonial history. www.sangmiyoo.com IG: @sangmiyooliving Show me the images !!
S3 · E101 · 24 Feb 2026 · 1 hr 22 min
s3e101 the science and art of ink with Stephen Hoskins
What is the "secret sauce" that gives a print its soul? In this episode, Ann sits down with Professor Stephen Hoskins to decode the complex chemistry and 500-year history of printmaking inks. From Old Master soot to the cutting edge of 3D-printed textures, we're diving deep into the science, sustainability, and tactile future of our craft's most foundational element. Stephen Hoskins's website: https://stephenhoskins.com/ University of the West of England: https://cfpr.uwe.ac.uk/ CFPR Editions: https://cfpreditions.uwe.ac.uk/ Top 10 Printing Museums in Europe:…
S3 · E100 · 10 Feb 2026 · 58 min
s3e100 celebrating 100 interviews
Celebrating her 100th interview in the third series, Ann is in the hotseat and is being interviewed by her friend Stacy Kincaid. The discussion covers the podcast's origins, challenges, and key moments. Ann reflects on her diverse career and shares insights into the technical and creative aspects of podcasting, including her commitment to providing visual references for listeners. The conversation spans personal anecdotes, professional highlights, and future aspirations for the podcast and printmaking community.
S3 · E99 · 27 Jan 2026 · 1 hr 11 min
s3e99 simultaneous color printing and Krishna Reddy's legacy with artist Mark Johnson
"It's not just about the mechanics; it's about the way the colors breathe together on the metal." — Mark Elliott Johnson In this episode of Platemark, host Ann Shafer talks with artist Mark Johnson who shares his extensive experiences working with Krishna Reddy, a master in simultaneous color printing (viscosity printing). The conversation reveals insights into Reddy's creative process, his philosophical approach to art and teaching, and the technical intricacies of his printmaking methods. The episode also touches on Johnson's own journey, the influence of Reddy's teachings on his career,…
S3 · E98 · 13 Jan 2026 · 54 min
S3e98 the Society of American Graphic Artists with Diego Briceno, DeAnn Prosia, and Esther Schwalb
Since 1915, the Society of American Graphic Artists (SAGA) has survived world wars, the Great Depression, and the digital revolution by doing one thing: keeping the press rolling. In this episode of Platemark, we're going behind the scenes of the cornerstone of American printmaking with three powerhouses who have steered the ship—Diego Briceno, DeAnn Prosia, and Esther Schwalb. We dive into SAGA's gritty 110-year evolution, from its origins as a Brooklyn etching club to its current status as a national titan championing inclusivity and technical mastery. Discover the secrets behind their…
S3 · E97 · 30 Dec 2025 · 1 hr 10 min
S3e97 the impulsivity and expressionism of artist Chuck Webster
Welcome to Platemark , where we dive into the creative minds shaping the art world. This week, we connect with Chuck Webster, an exceptional artist whose deep and impulsive connection to drawing is both therapeutic and transformative. From publishing his own childhood sketches to constantly finding inspiration in sources ranging from Russian folk art to urban graffiti, Chuck's work is a fascinating dialogue between instinct and refinement. Join us as he opens up about his cathartic process, how content magically emerges from form, his love for experimenting with vintage materials, and how…
S3 · E96 · 16 Dec 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
s3e96 directing David Krut Projects with Amé Bell
Ready to be globally inspired? On this episode of Platemark , Ann connects with the visionary Amé Bell, Director of David Krut Projects, who wears the hats of artist, historian, and curator. From the bustling print studios of Johannesburg, Amé brought South African voices to the world stage by curating the 2022 Venice Biennale Pavilion. They dive into the profound journey of collaborating with artists, how digital spaces are rewriting the rules of curating, and even get a peek at Amé's other passion: podcasting! Find out what it takes to make a moment in art history and the enriching impact…
S3 · E95 · 2 Dec 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
s3e95 collaging identity with Yashua Klos
In this episode of Platemark, Ann converses with Yashua Klos, a passionate artist finding new connections through collaborative printmaking. They discuss his unique woodblock collage technique, his journey of self-discovery, and the impact of reuniting with family. We talk about the nuances of his artistic process, the emotional resonance of his work, and the importance of representation in the art world. Don't miss this insightful conversation that intertwines personal growth, artistic expression, and the vibrant community of printmaking. Cover image: Sean Pressley Artist's IG: @yashuared…
S3 · E94 · 18 Nov 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
S3e94 art law with Yayoi Shionoiri
In this episode of Platemark, Ann talks with Yayoi Shionoiri, an arts lawyer and Vice President of External Affairs & General Counsel at Powerhouse Arts. Yayoi, who has over two decades of experience in art law, discusses her unique career path, from her initial interest in art history to working in law supporting artists and cultural workers. They talk about working together on the Brooklyn Fine Art Print Fair, the significance of transparency in art production, the evolving field of art law, and the intersections of technology and art, particularly generative AI. The conversation also…
S3 · E93 · 4 Nov 2025 · 1 hr 9 min
S3e93 printing Peter Milton etchings with Robert Townsend
In this episode of Platemark, Ann delves into the intricate world of prints and printmaking with master printer Robert Townsend. With over 55 years of experience, Bob shares his journey, techniques, and notable collaborations with artists like Peter Milton, Jim Dine, and Michael Mazur. They take a deep dive into plate wiping, steel facing, and other essential intaglio processes. Tune in to learn about the nuances of printing detailed etchings, and gain insights into the collaborative efforts that bring them to life. https://retownsendstudio.com/ https://www.facebook.com/retownsendstudio/ IG…

About Platemark: prints and the printmaking ecosystem

Platemark: prints and the printmaking ecosystem is a English arts & books podcast from Ann Shafer, fine art prints evangelist, curator, and art historian. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Ann Shafer, fine art prints evangelist, curator, and art historian
Language: English
Category: Arts & Books
New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 1 hr 5 min
Latest episode: 13 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1762940992
Rights: Ann Shafer

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