The Sixth Minnesota National Print Biennial

The Sixth Minnesota National Print Biennial showcases the vitality and evolving nature of printmaking today. Organized by the University of Minnesota’s Department of Art and the Katherine E. Nash Gallery, this national juried exhibition showcases printmaking in all forms and media, from traditional 2D to installation and sculptural works. It seeks to stimulate interest in print activity and to provide a forum for an exchange of ideas, trends, and creative engagement. The Sixth Minnesota National Print Biennial will be on display at the Katherine E. Nash gallery from October 7 through November 6, 2008. A public reception and awards ceremony has been scheduled for Friday, October 10, from 6-8:30 p.m. All events at the Nash are free and open to the general public.

Gallery hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 11 am – 7 pm.

Directed by Jenny Schmid, assistant professor in the Department of Art’s printmaking area, The Biennial received submissions from 354 artists representing 35 States. 90 works by 56 artists have been selected for the exhibition. Schmid comments on the exhibition:

The present manifestations of our medium are very diverse and the 2008 Minnesota Print Biennial reflects the dynamic practice of printmaker/artists currently working in the U.S.A. After viewing over 1000 entries, the jurors were ready to select a range of approaches, from the most traditional rich black etching to a Xerox installation, from portraits to abstraction. The jury was very open-minded and decided not to focus on works that adhere to the strict center of the medium, instead they explored the periphery and also selected artists that are working with a photo-based practice or a 3D aesthetic.

Curators include:

Stephen Goddard, Senior Curator of Prints and Drawings at the Spencer Museum of Art and a Professor of Art History at the University of Kansas.
Betsy Carpenter, Associate Curator at the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis. She has curated numerous exhibitions and was the co-curator of the recent Frida Kahlo show.
Ayanah Moor, an accomplished artist who has won numerous awards and residencies. She is an Associate Professor at Carnegie Mellon University.

A full-color catalogue including essays and interviews will be available at the Nash Gallery.