TURKU PRINTMAKERS ASSOCIATION

PRESS RELEASE

The first known art print exhibition in Turku was held in 1932, organized by a group called Grafica. This exhibition group evolved into a permanent association of printmakers in Turku, and a year later, Finland’s first and still the only local printmaking association was officially registered in Turku: the Turku Graphic Art Association. In 1967, the association’s name was changed to Turku Printmakers’ Association.

From its inception, the association has been active, with a primary mission to promote printmaking and to support its members in professional matters. Since 1967, the association has maintained a printmaking studio, providing its members access to work with lithography, metal engraving, and serigraphy techniques.

The exhibition activity of the Turku Printmakers’ Association has been extensive. On average, it has organized three exhibitions annually in various parts of Finland. Internationally, the Turku printmakers have showcased their work in countries such as the Soviet Union, West Germany, Czechoslovakia, England, and Sweden. The collaboration with the Swedish Grafiska Sällskapet has been particularly significant, as demonstrated by several exchange exhibitions between Stockholm and Turku.

Currently, the Turku Printmakers’ Association has 59 artist members and 99 supporting members. The association is chaired by Juhani Vikainen, with the board members including Martin Ahlström, Matti Helenius, Hannu Hämäläinen, Pia Laurila, Veikko Lehtovaara and Einari Levo.

Translated with ChatGPT