International Keynote Speaker | Robynn Smith | Print Day in May: A Global Printmaking Action

Print Day in May is an annual worldwide printmaking event. On the first Saturday in May, printmakers across the globe take the time to do what they love to do: print. Images are posted on the PDiM website and on social media platforms. Tens of thousands of printmakers in 100 countries take part with dozens of sponsors offering support, and for 24 hours, the world slows down, a collective focus takes hold and creativity is celebrated. 

Print Day in May was founded in 2007 by artist and educator Robynn Smith and a few of her students at Monterey Peninsula College in California. The event has embodied and reflected the last twenty years of the global printmaking renaissance, the technology revolution, the worldwide pandemic and two decades of global politics.  This talk will highlight the growth and influence of PDiM on local communities, educational institutions and Robynn’s studio practice.  

In this talk, Robynn will discuss the origins, history, present and future of the event. While telling a terrific story, she will impart ideas of collective artistic action, the power of creativity and practical, ‘how to” information to encourage and inform Printopia participants to take positive action in their own communities.  

The audience can expect to gain practical knowledge and increase their awareness of global printmaking, while being inspired to participate and possibly found their own printmaking actions.  

About Robynn Smith: 

Robynn Smith is an internationally exhibiting artist based in Santa Cruz, California. Recently retired from teaching at Monterey Peninsula College, Robynn brings with her a wealth of teaching experience. She is well versed in a myriad of techniques and has taught exciting workshops in nearly a dozen countries. She is the founder of Print Day in May, an annual, global celebration of printmaking on all seven continents. Recent museum exhibitions include the Monterey Museum of Art, the Euphrat Museum, and the Triton Museum. Recent residencies include L’AiR Arts Paris, Islensk Grafik in Iceland and Zea Mays Printmaking in Massachusetts.  

website: www.printdayinmay.com 
Instagram: @printdayinmay 

Note: Robynn will be teaching a monoprint workshop only on Sunday, 3 May at Studio One Toi Tū as part of the Printopia Festival. Spaces are limited, get your tickets at Eventfinda.co.nz from 1 February.