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“The uniqueness of a work of art is inseparable from its being embedded in the fabric of tradition. This tradition itself is thoroughly alive and extremely changeable.”  — Walter Benjamin

Although printmaking as an artistic process pre-dates Gutenberg’s printing press, print-related practices and concerns have evolved greatly since their inception. OCAD students will draw from the history of the medium, while expanding and exploring hybridized printmaking techniques involving photo, digital and installation techniques. Since printed matter is so pervasive and can be found everywhere from magazines and billboards to clothing and ceramics, printmaking has a unique and challenging relationship to the world of contemporary art.

As a foundation for their artistic practice, students are introduced to six primary print processes: etching, lithography, relief, screenprinting, papermaking and book arts. Students are encouraged to create work using digital and photographic technologies within the traditional print media and to explore cross-disciplinary possibilities. As an extension of process-related concerns of authenticity, multiplicity and seriality, all of which are tied directly to the history of Printmaking, students will learn about and create artist multiples, ephemera, book works and “printstallations.”

Throughout their studies, Printmaking students augment their level of technical skill and develop an awareness of health and safety issues. Students are encouraged to apply themselves creatively and conceptually while pushing the boundaries of print media. Liberal Studies courses complement studio practice by encouraging an awareness of issues and concerns relevant to contemporary artists today, and offering the perspective of a wider social context.

Students majoring in Printmaking are required to complete a Studio Thesis project in their final year. Open studio time may be used to continue studio work. Refer to the calendar course descriptions for further details on the courses offered in the Printmaking area. Printmaking students are also encouraged to register for Fabrication Studios courses.

Printmaking Program Guide

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree students must complete the requirements listed below for their program, including the minimum 5.0 liberal studies credits. 

Associate of the Ontario College of Art & Design (AOCAD) diploma students must complete the requirements listed below for their program, including the minimum 4.0 liberal studies credits. Diploma students admitted to OCAD 2002 fall/winter or earlier, may replace up to 1.5 of the 4.0 required liberal studies with studio-seminars. 


 See the Liberal Studies requirements that pertain to you.

COURSE CODE	COURSE NAME	DEGREE	DIPLOMA
200 Level Requirements
PRNT 2B23	Introduction to Lithography & Screenprinting	0.5	0.5
PRNT 2B24	Introduction to Etching & Relief	0.5	0.5
PRNT 2B25	Contemporary Issues: Art Today (STU/SEM)	0.5	0.5**
VISC 2B31	History of Printing and Printmaking	0.5*	0.5*
200 Level	PRNT Option Studio or STU/SEM courses	1.0	1.0
200 Level	Faculty of Art electives	1.0	2.0
	Liberal Studies courses	1.0*	0
Total Credits		5.0	5.0
300 Level Requirements
PRNT 3C05	Intermediate Printmaking Studio	1.0	1.0
PRNT 3B21	Text and Image (STU/SEM)	0.5	0.5**
300 Level	PRNT Option Studio or STU/SEM courses	1.5	1.5
200 or 300 Level	Faculty of Art electives	1.0	1.5
	Liberal Studies courses	1.0*	0.5*
Total Credits		5.0	5.0
400 Level Requirements
PRNT 4B01	PRNT Studio Thesis: Research	0.5	0.5
PRNT 4B02	PRNT Studio Thesis: Presentation	0.5	0.5
PRNT 4B03	Professional Practice for Printmakers	0.5	0.5
400 Level	PRNT Option Studio or STU/SEM courses	2.0	2.0
200, 300 or 400 Level	Faculty of Art electives	0.5	1.0
	Liberal Studies courses	1.0*	0.5*
Total Credits		5.0	5.0

All Liberal Studies courses are available to students and a wide range of study is encouraged. Printmaking students who are seeking Liberal Studies courses to deepen their disciplinary knowledge may be interested in the following courses:

VISC 2B07	History of Modern Art
VISC 2B31	History of Printing and Printmaking

*See the Liberal Studies requirements for Degree and Diploma Stream.

**1.0 credit of the 2.5 upper-level Liberal Studies credit requirements may be fulfilled by Studio-Seminars (diploma only).


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