Ex-Libris Print Exchange

Ex Libris (From the Books)
Print Exchange

Spudnik Press is proud to announce our first member print exchange, in conjunction with Atlanta Printmakers Studio, who’s members will also be participating in the exchange. The theme compliments the Print Big! steamroller print event at APS, with imagery focusing on Books, Reading and Literature.

Bookplates were originally designed as small decorative labels pasted inside a book’s cover to indicate ownership. A long line of artists have been inspired and commissioned to design these miniature prints including Albrecht Durer, Hans Holbein, Aubrey Beardsley, Eric Gill, and Rockwell Kent to name a few. In the 19th century there was strong interest in ex libris collecting and society’s were formed to promote and commission bookplates from prominent artists.

Bookplates served as evidence of prestige and status as well as important documentation of the provenance of books. The images often related to the interests, career and accomplishments of the book’s owner, a play on the person’s name, and ancient myths or fables. Whether your print focuses on the traditional subjects of the bookplate or addresses the issues of ownership and consumerism, we invite all APS and Spudnik Press members to participate in this annual exchange and exhibition.

Print Exchange Details:

Paper Size: 7 x 5 inches
Edition Size: 13 numbered impressions – You may produce a larger edition but the first 13 should be designated for this exchange.
Registration Date: May 28, 2012
Due Date: Prints must be received by August 16, 2012
Cost: $15


Payment Options




Please be sure to include your full name and preferred email address in “notes to seller”.

You may register to participate in this exchange through May 28, 2012. If you prefer to register in person or by mail please fill out the attached Ex-Libris Print Exchange Form and submit with your $15 entry fee to (or drop it by the studio during Open Studio sessions): Spudnik Press, 1821 W. Hubbard #302, Chicago, IL 60622

*APS members may send/deliever entry fee to APS.

Prints should be made using traditional printmaking processes (no reproductions). Digital prints are acceptable if combined with traditional printmaking processes. No photographs. You will receive 10 randomly selected prints. The first two of the remaining 3 prints from each edition will be retained for APS and Spudnik Press archives. The third set will be reserved for exhibition and art auction fundraising to benefit APS. Information regarding exhibit details and art auction will be announced at a later date.

If you are not currently a member of APS or Spudnik and would like to participate in the portfolio exchange, please join either organization by May 28, 2012 by visiting atlantaprintmakersstudio.org or here. Basic memberships range from $20-$50.

Spudnik Press members may submit their prints to Spudnik Press during our open studio hours (Mon & Thur 6:30-11pm, Fri & Sat 12:30-5pm) or by appointment. Contact brandy@spudnikpress.com for details.