In the vibrant world of art, printmaking stands as a testament to human creativity and innovation. The Month of Printmaking, celebrated by artists and enthusiasts alike, provides a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of this captivating art form. From its humble beginnings to its evolution into a diverse and dynamic medium, printmaking has played a crucial role in shaping the artistic landscape throughout the centuries.

The Birth of Printmaking:
The roots of printmaking can be traced back to ancient China, where woodblock printing first emerged around the 9th century. Initially used for reproducing Buddhist texts, this technique gradually spread to Korea and Japan. The development of movable type in China during the 11th century marked a significant leap forward, allowing for greater flexibility and efficiency in printing.

The Renaissance Revolution:
Printmaking truly blossomed during the Renaissance in Europe. The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century revolutionized the reproduction of written material. This technological breakthrough not only facilitated the mass production of books but also paved the way for new printmaking techniques. Woodcuts and engravings became popular mediums for artists to reproduce and disseminate their work more widely.

The Artistic Renaissance:
As the Renaissance unfolded, artists like Albrecht Dürer and Rembrandt embraced printmaking as a means of artistic expression. Their intricate engravings and etchings showcased the potential of the medium to capture fine details and convey complex emotions. The democratization of art through printmaking allowed for a wider audience to engage with and appreciate the works of these masters.

The Rise of Lithography and Intaglio:
The 19th century witnessed the emergence of two significant printmaking techniques—lithography and intaglio. Lithography, developed by Alois Senefelder in 1796, enabled artists to draw directly onto a stone or metal surface, offering a new level of artistic freedom. Meanwhile, intaglio processes, such as etching and aquatint, continued to evolve, providing artists with versatile tools for creating intricate prints.

20th Century Innovations:
The 20th century brought about a wave of experimentation and innovation in printmaking. Artists like Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró embraced the possibilities of techniques like linocut and screenprinting, pushing the boundaries of the medium. The integration of printmaking into modern and contemporary art movements, such as Pop Art and Abstract Expressionism, further solidified its place in the artistic canon.

The Month of Printmaking:
In contemporary times, the Month of Printmaking serves as a celebration of this diverse and enduring art form. Artists, printmakers, and art institutions around the world come together to showcase the beauty and versatility of printmaking through exhibitions, workshops, and events. This annual observance not only honors the historical roots of printmaking but also highlights its continued relevance and evolution in the ever-changing landscape of art. Here at Abstract, we will be featuring the works of Moeh Haywood and Brendan Moyles, aka Rabies Babies!

Moeh Haywood is the senior artist and co-owner of Crimson Hilt Tattoo. Along with his tattoo pursuits, Moeh is deeply immersed in a variety of artistic mediums including, but not limited to, painting, drawing, sign painting, and printmaking. His works are often influenced by his Thai background, along with his many travels throughout Asia. Whether it’s wood or a traffic cone, Moeh continues to extend the art of printmaking with his creativity. With hundreds of satisfied clients here in Denver, and artwork in many galleries, walls, and homes, Moeh has established himself as one of Denver’s finest creatives. He remains committed to creating original tattoos, as well as using a variety of mediums to create one-of-a-kind works of art.

Rabies Babies is run by Brendan Moyles Dorney, designer, artist, and screen printing wizard. Coming from an immigrant family and as a native New Yorker, Brendan grew up with a strong work ethic and more than a little hustle in his bones. From a young age, he always had endless curiosity and a strong desire to work with his hands. As a kid, he felt confined by school and couldn’t help but draw on the walls. This need to express his creativity led him to pursue fine arts at F.I.T. Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC, exploring traditional mediums such as painting and drawing. After college, Brendan found his way into antiques restoration as a woodworker, taking on high-end projects for museums, auction houses, and private collectors. While his journey took him in a roundabout way, owning a design and screen printing studio allows Brendan’s traditional background to inform his work, while expressing his creativity in a new, innovative way. When he’s not busy in the studio, you can find Brendan riding his Triumph Bonneville, playing and recording music to relax, or dive-bombing the mountains of Colorado on his snowboard. Fun Fact: Brendan won $120 dollars in a “Pope Pool” where he picked the correct Pope in 2005.

Come on down this Friday 3.1, from 6-10 pm, and support local art and enjoy Denver’s Santa Fe Art District!