Letter from the President, Liz Shepherd, 7-25-2011
In 2003, when I was a "mature student" at the School of Fine Arts, Boston, one of my prints was selected for the North American Print Biennial. I decided that my print could use some improving in the weeks before I had to deliver it to the exhibition. So, I remade the plates and was ready to submit the "new and improved" version when one of my professors said "Hey! You can't do that; you have to deliver the print that was selected! They take this stuff very seriously!"
As I take over the stewardship of this venerable and "serious" institution, I want to thank Marc Cote for the outstanding job he has done as President of the Board 2009 - 11, especially in his role steering the 2011 Biennial. It was a gorgeous exhibition, juried by internationally acclaimed artist, Jim Dine.
The Biennial was a huge success in meeting the Boston Printmakers core mission: to promote public knowledge, understanding, and support for printmaking with a huge turn out at the Danforth Museum, to encourage and support artists working in printmaking by selling a record number of prints and providing important exposure for all exhibition artists, including the dozens of printmaking students from art schools in New England and to promote excellence and innovation in the field of printmaking by hosting this highly competitive forum for the exchange of ideas and printmaking methods.
The Board of the Boston Printmakers thanks Katherine French and her staff at the Danforth Museum, Kristina Wilson and a host of other meticulous professionals for their hard work and enthusiasm for the Biennial.
You may be unaware that members are always welcome to come to annual meetings. At this year's meeting Eric Goldberg was welcomed back as Secretary, Vivian Berman became an emeritus member and we bade a very fond farewell to former president Candy Nartonis, who is relocating to Albuquerque. We also thank Debra Olin, who departs from the Board.
Looking ahead, plans are in progress for a members show for 2012 as well as more exciting international travel and educational programs. The Board is also already working on laying the groundwork for the 2013 Biennial.
One of our most important goals for 2012 is to increase member participation. The Boston Printmakers needs the support of its members in the form of volunteers to work on committees. Volunteers not only enjoy the camaraderie of working with a group of colleagues but also have access to the talents and expertise of other members. Please contact any Board member if you would like to donate even just a little of your time. We need you! Regardless of your geographic location, it is likely that you could be a valued volunteer.
Be sure that we have your email address! We are hard at work at becoming a paperless organization, using the Internet to improve communication.
Happy printing.
Liz Shepherd
