Posts By: Spudnik

2022 Teaching Artist Cohort | Call for Applications

Deadline to Apply: August 1, 2022 at 11:59 p.m.

The Spudnik Press Cooperative Teaching Artist Cohort Program supports print-based artists living in the Chicago area with a passion for art education. Through offering reliable arts-related income and professional experience to working artists, this program offers comprehensive support to Chicago artists interested in Arts Education. This program develops artistic teaching careers while bringing diverse perspectives to the various audiences that Spudnik Press serves, with a focus on: first-time printmaking students, emerging artists, and professional artists. The Teaching Artist Cohort provides a consistent foundation for classes and workshops, ensuring impactful educational opportunities for our community. 

This program encourages the  integration of traditional, technical knowledge of print processes with innovative, personal creative practices. Through expanding professional networks and the contemporary development of print media, each cohort of Spudnik Press Teaching Artists will engage in the accessibility of art education throughout Chicago communities.

Program Overview:

The Teaching Artist Cohort Program at Spudnik Press Cooperative provides print-based artists a full year of unfettered studio access paired with 9 months of ongoing teaching opportunities.  Throughout the program, Teaching Artists will fulfill core educational offerings at Spudnik Press through teaching introductory and advanced classes, private lessons, youth and family programs, and have the opportunity to develop unique classes or workshops that build upon their personal artistic practice. 

Teaching Artists  will receive:

  • A monthly stipend of based on the number of hours taught per month
  • 24/7 Keyholder Access to the studio
  • A Spudnik Press Cooperative Annual Membership
  • The opportunity to audit courses offered at Spudnik Press
  • Professional development opportunities

This program provides educators the opportunity to accrue experience teaching varying age groups in various settings. Additionally, Teaching Artists can build on their personal art practice through full access to Spudnik Press studios. With this unfettered access to a communal workspace, artists can network, create conversations, and make lasting connections within our community.

Eligibility:

This Teaching Program is committed to serving: 

  • Artists whose current artistic practice utilizes printmaking 
  • Artists with enough printmaking experience to work independently in multiple areas of the studio (Please review our facilities or visit the studio for more details)
  • Artists who demonstrate an ongoing commitment to community arts education
  • Artists who are local to the Chicago area with reliable transportation to and from Spudnik Press Cooperative 
  • Artists that have experience developing and leading class curriculum 
  • Artists who are able to commit to approximately 6 hours of teaching per week for the duration of this program

Expectations:

Teaching Artists are expected to:

  • Commit to the full 10 months of this program with the opportunity to continue teaching at Spudnik Press after that period ends.
  • Develop creative course proposals in an effort to develop their artistic teaching careers as well as bring new, diverse perspectives to the various audiences that Spudnik Press serves.
  • Fulfill core educational offerings at Spudnik Press, including but not limited to: 
    • Screenprinting (paper & fabric)
    • Risography
    • Relief
    • Monoprinting
    • Intaglio
    • Letterpress
    • Cyanotype
    • Zines & Comics
    • Papermaking
    • Book Arts
  • Complete thorough authorization to Spudnik Press equipment, facilities, and procedures during their first month in the program. After completion, Teaching Artists should have enough experience to work independently in the printmaking processes required for their courses.
  • Be dedicated to the teaching of printmaking by leading approximately two educational opportunities per week through a combination of group classes and private lessons, culminating in an average of 22-24 hours of teaching per month. On top of the monthly base pay of $500, Teaching Artists will earn $22/hour for each hour of teaching that exceeds the projected 24 hours of teaching within a calendar month.

Important Details:

  • Application Fee: None; Free to apply
  • Deadline To Apply: 8/1/22 at 11:59 p.m  
  • Final Notification: By 8/22/22
  • Program Period:  8/29/22 – 5/26/23
  • Duration: 10 months (one month of training, 9 months of teaching)
    Training & Orientation: 8/29/22 – 9/23/22
  • Compensation: $500 per month based on maintaining a rolling average of 22-24 hours of teaching per month. Additional teaching hours will be compensated at $22/hour.

Selection Process:

Teaching Artist applications are reviewed by a panel that includes one staff member, Spudnik’s Executive Director, and one member of the Spudnik Press Board. Decisions are based on the quality of the proposal, teaching experience, the strength of the portfolio, and how well the interests and skills of the applicant fits the educational needs of the studio. In addition, we seek artists who are capable of working independently while bringing in new, unique educational opportunities to our audience. We also consider other aspects such as scheduling logistics and alignment with current organizational goals. All finalists will be offered in-person or virtual interviews conducted by Spudnik’s Executive Director. 

To Apply:

Please apply through our online application form. You will need to have the following ready to submit:

  • Letter of interest (one page): Please address why you are interested in this program, personal teaching goals, learning goals for students, and/or teaching philosophy.
  • A portfolio of 7-10 images:  Images must not exceed 1MB each and should be titled with your name and a file number. Work should include print-based work and work from the last two years.
  • Image List: For each work, include the file name, title, medium, year of completion, and dimensions.
  • Artist Bio: Please limit to 100 words or less.
  • Current Resume or CV
  • 1-3 References with contact information and their relationship to you.

Teaching Artist Cohort Informational Presentation

For questions regarding the application, email sara@spudnikpress.org

Please note: Our 2022 Teaching Artist Cohort is intended to be held onsite and fully in-person. While this program is not currently accepting applications for remote Teaching Artists, we will consider virtual teaching proposals on an individual basis. Inquiries and proposals can be sent to sara@spudnikpress.org


Everyone’s safety is important to us. Participation in this program requires being onsite at Spudnik Press Cooperative and that per our Covid-19 Policy, all artists accepted into the program will be required to provide staff with proof of vaccination. Where possible, we will make reasonable accommodations for artists with a medical or religious exemption.


Spudnik Press Cooperative encourages applications from artists of all backgrounds regardless of race, color, gender or religious affiliation, including but not limited to: artists who identify as  BIPOC and/or LGBTQ, women artists, artists with disabilities, and veterans. We understand that teaching experience comes in many forms, both formal and informal, and we welcome applicants with diverse teaching backgrounds. 

Our Accessibility page includes additional information about getting to the studio and using the equipment.

Farewell From Our Founding Director

This week marks an exciting shift for Spudnik: Our next Executive Director, Sara Emerson, has arrived in Chicago and is eager to begin meeting Chicago’s artistic community. We are enjoying a brief overlap period, and I can confidently say that we share a deep love for the art and craft of printmaking and a dedication to expanding its equity, accessibility, viability, and vibrance. 

The initial stages of this transition have heightened anxiety, and brought concerns about equity, transparency, and organizational culture to the forefront. Sara understands that as a member-based organization, community participation is essential for moving forward and I am excited about her early commitment to member engagement. Monthly membership meetings are scheduled through the summer with agendas determined by member input. These meetings will culminate in Spudnik’s Annual Member Meeting in August where members can cast their ballots for any artists and supporters nominated to join the board of directors. 

Spudnik has experienced continual growth and expansion since the 2007 grand opening in my humble apartment. Now firmly in its teenage years, the next phase of growth may be less about scale and more about focusing who  Spudnik is, what Spudnik does, and how Spudnik operates. Change and transitions are rarely easy. There remains a tremendous amount of work ahead to repair division, interrogate how privilege and inaccessibility show up in the organization, and rebuild finances and staff.

I hope that my departure as the founding executive director signals that the organization has matured into a reliable resource with a strong network of artists, supporters, and programs. It is now ready to be guided by the next generation of artists. As I leave my staff leadership position, I look forward to supporting Spudnik as a community member.

Looking back over the past 15 years, I am incredibly proud of the organization that I founded. I’ve made my share of mistakes as well and I’d like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and apologize for any harm and hurt I’ve caused.

Spudnik has been looked to as an inspiration for many community print spaces across the country, and has helped shape the next generation of printmakers. This accomplishment is the direct result of an incredible network of current and past staff, teaching artists, volunteers, and board members contributing above and beyond. I am so grateful for everyone’s support. 

With deep appreciation of everyone within the Spudnik community,

Angee Lennard
Founding Director of Spudnik Press Cooperative

Spudnik Press Spring Programming Update

This Spring, we’re reducing our offerings as we select and welcome our next Executive Director, and as we continue to prioritize strengthening engagement with our members and community. 

This decision is a necessary step to ensure that the organization manages this time of change and transition with care and transparency. This plan centers our staff and our internal community – members, and those who are currently engaged in our programs.

Artists and students currently enrolled in programs will also not be impacted by this change. Our Open Studio, Keyholder, and  Residency Programs will also continue to operate, and will not be affected. 

At this point in time, the following activities will be reduced or paused: 

  • Group classes and workshops, including Papermaking Labs.
  • New Printing Services. All current projects and projects that we  provided a quote for will be completed as planned. 
  • Summer internship program. We welcome college students to apply for a Fall 2022 internship position. 
  • Studio Fellowship program applications are paused at this time. Our current cohort is active through September 2022. 
  • Private workshops, including youth program field trips and private corporate workshops,  are not available at this time. 1-hour group tours are available on a limited basis. Please contact info@spudnikpress.org with any inquiries.
  • We are continuing to offer select Studio Access Trainings and Private Lessons that can be booked through our website. We are not able to schedule sessions outside of this limited availability.

As new staff are welcomed to the team, we will gradually resume our programs, and continue to keep you updated on any new developments. 

Thank you for your patience and understanding, as we navigate this important transition for the organization. 

Join the Spudnik Press Board of Directors

The Spudnik Press Cooperative Board of Directors is seeking new Board Members! We encourage members of our community to consider supporting our mission by joining our Board. 

The Spudnik Press Board of Directors is a team of volunteers working behind the scenes to ensure our organization is resilient, mission-driven, and advocating day-in-day-out for artists and the arts. Board Members provide long-range leadership, governance, and oversight for the organization. Members of our board work collaboratively with each other, the Executive Director, and the staff of Spudnik Press to support the mission of our organization and any challenges that arise during their tenure. 

Priorities for the coming year focus on our current leadership transition and working closely with staff to ensure that the organization is accessible, diverse, inclusive, and equitable.

Board Members serve two-year terms and are eligible for reappointment for additional terms. Board meetings are typically held in the evening, every month, with additional meetings called as needed. Directors are expected to serve on at least one committee, meeting approximately once per month.

We have recently created dedicated seats for Spudnik members, without annual dues. These member seats are part of our commitment to ensure we are representing the needs of the community in our guidance and decisions. To be eligible for these seats, Spudnik members must have at least two years of membership with the organization, and these years do not need to be consecutive. Membership must be active at the time of application.

At this moment, we are accepting applications for general and member seats

Please send your resume plus a letter of inquiry to boardofdirectors@spudnikpress.org. The board of directors will select new Board members to temporarily serve through August. These Board members will be eligible to be voted into the full two-year term by Spudnik membership in the Annual Member Meeting in August.

Founder and Executive Director of Spudnik Press Cooperative to Step Down after Fifteen Years

Chicago, IL – After fifteen years, Founder and Executive Director Angee Lennard is leaving Spudnik Press Cooperative, a community-based art center located at Hubbard Street Lofts in West Town, Chicago, to explore what’s next for her career.

“Printmaking in all of its forms is who I am, so while this is hard to say, the organization is ready for change in order to grow stronger and continue its journey”, says Lennard. “I founded Spudnik Press Cooperative with the aspiration of creating a cooperative space where printmakers can thrive. Together, with the support and dedication of the community, it has grown to become a dynamic organization built on a multi-faceted, welcoming, and resilient studio model. I look forward to staying connected.”

Spudnik Press Cooperative is unique in its dedication to printmaking and the cultural traditions surrounding print. Its studio houses professional facilities and rare equipment for a wide variety of traditional print processes and fine art publishing. The 4800 square-foot studio includes shared work space, private studios and mixed-use spaces for exhibitions, classes and community events.

“What Angee has achieved over the last fifteen years for Spudnik and the printmaking community in Chicago is truly extraordinary,” says a statement from the Board of Directors. “Her expertise as a printmaker has helped forge the organization’s reputation as a trusted resource for artists and collaborators in the printmaking space. She will be missed at Spudnik, and we look forward to witnessing her – and Spudnik’s – next amazing chapter.”

The organization began in 2007 as a live/work studio. Founder – Angee Lennard – created the community-integrated print shop to respond to the needs of printmakers and Chicagoans interested in the arts. Throughout its fifteen-year history, Spudnik Press has seen exponential growth. Programming began with a simple weekly drop-in Open Studio session and now includes a rich network of opportunities for anyone who wishes to be creative through Printmaking.

Between 2008 and 2011, the organization incorporated, received 501(c)3 status, moved to a dedicated studio space, acquired additional printing presses and hired a Studio Manager. Within four years, Spudnik Press Cooperative was able to offer access to professional letterpress, relief, intaglio, bookbinding, screen printing, and offset printing facilities. Programs expanded through new Open Studio sessions, a local residency program, youth field trips, and publishing prints in collaboration with artists and designers. Another studio expansion in 2013 allowed for the creation of an Exhibitions Program, a large-scale free festival, Printers Ball, and the inclusion of Risography into our printmaking resources.

As Spudnik approaches fifteen years of programming, it looks forward to bringing on new leadership at an important moment in its history. During this transition to find a new Executive Director, the organization will continue to minimize barriers to well-maintained, robust printmaking facilities while establishing a rich community of artists and art-consumers engaged in the vibrant landscape of fine art printmaking.

For media inquiries, email boardofdirectors@spudnikpress.org.

—end—

Link to a Letter from Angee Lennard

New Directions

Dear friends of Spudnik,

Since I founded Spudnik Press Cooperative 15 years ago, I have lived and breathed every moment for the betterment of the organization. Printmaking in all of its forms is who I am, so while this is hard to say, the organization is ready for change in order to grow stronger and continue its journey.  

As many people may know, I had a long-planned sabbatical that was supposed to start in April 2020. However, the pandemic had different ideas. I stayed on and through my efforts we were able to secure needed funding to remain open and viable, and offer ongoing studio access to the artists who rely on our studio. Now that the emergency is over, I intend to take a creative retreat in order to explore what is next for me.

As part of this transition, I support the open call for applications for a new Executive Director.  I will be available during this search and for an expected transition period though Mid May. Between now and when a new Executive Director is fully onboarded, the Board of Directors will be determining the short and long-term strategy of the organization.

I founded Spudnik Press Cooperative with the aspiration of creating a cooperative space where printmakers can thrive. Together, with the support and dedication of the community, it has grown to become a dynamic organization built on a multi-faceted, welcoming, and resilient studio model.

I have loved my time at Spudnik Press, and deeply appreciate the opportunities I have had to collaborate with our staff, board of directors, teaching artists, members, and students, the countless artists who’ve come through our studio and our programs, and the staff, artists, and students of the dozens institutions and organizations we’ve partnered with over the years. 

I look forward to staying connected.  

With gratitude for your ongoing support,
Angee Lennard
Founding Director of Spudnik Press Cooperative

Spudnik Press is Hiring: Education Lead

Spudnik Press Cooperative is excited to announce the following open position:

View the Education Lead job description

Spudnik Press Cooperative seeks an organized, outgoing, and collaborative individual to support our mission to provide education in printmaking practices through bringing together a diverse community of learners including emerging artists, established artists, youth, and adults.

This is a permanent part-time position (30-32 hours/week) with flexible hours and a blend of in-person and remote work. Benefits include paid time off, some paid holidays, and unfettered studio access.

To apply, please send e-mail with cover letter and resume to angee@spudnikpress.org. Applications review will begin January 3, 2022 and continue until the position is filled.

Spudnik Press Cooperative does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.

Private Studio Available January 1: Printshop Center

Housed within a 3,000 square foot shared workspace and community printshop, our private studios are ideal for active printmakers, as well as book artists, and artists who work with a variety of 2-D media or small scale 3-D media.

Please note that the studio is NOT furnished with shelving and furniture.

Status:

Available January 1, 2021.

Rent:

$455/month includes 24-hour keyholder access to all printshop equipment, ongoing membership, and general supplies.

Amenities:

10 x 15 feet
8 foot walls, high ceilings
Locking door
Includes A/C, heat, internet, utilities
Hardwood floors

Email angee@spudnikpress.org with questions or to schedule a time to see the studio.

Interested in 24-hour access but don’t need a private studio? Learn about Keyholder Access.


Everyone’s safety is important to us. Participation in this program requires being onsite at Spudnik Press Cooperative and that per our Covid-19 Policy, all artists accepted into the program will be required to provide staff with proof of vaccination. Where possible, we will make reasonable accommodations for artists with a medical or religious exemption.

Adjusted End-of-Year Hours

In recognition of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year, we will be adjusting our regularly scheduled hours:

Open Studio Hours

We will not hold the following Open Studio hours:

Thursday, November 25 (Thanksgiving Day)
Friday, November 26
Friday, December 24
Saturday, December 25 (Christmas Day)
Friday, December 31 (New Years Eve)
Saturday, January 1 (New Years Day)

Business Hours

Spudnik Press will be open by appointment only during the following times:

Wednesday, November 24 through Friday, November 26
Thursday, December 23 through Sunday, January 2

Winter 2022 College Internship: Call for Applications

Priority Deadline: December 1, 2021

Internships at Spudnik Press focus on bringing students into every aspect of facilitating a community art studio. Internships balance administrative tasks with hands-on studio-based projects. Interns are able to work alongside a variety of Spudnik Press staff to focus on 2-3 of the following areas of focus:

  • Administration: Database management, processing enrollment and memberships, etc.
  • Development: Donor acknowledgement, event planning and organizing
  • Marketing: Social media, online postings, e-newsletters, design and distribution of materials
  • Exhibitions & Sales: Planning and organizing, install and deinstall, photo documentation
  • Education: Teaching assistance for group classes, workshops, and field trips
  • Publishing: Printing assistance for client, invitational, and internal projects, archive maintenance
  • Studio Maintenance: Inventory, press maintenance, cleaning, and organizing

Within a typical week, interns will support a variety of projects ranging from daily maintenance of the studio, deep cleaning, stocking and ordering supplies, updating the website, online marketing, documenting artwork, event planning assistance, processing memberships, and managing our archive.

Additionally, all interns complete a Member Interview and collaboratively organize and execute a social media takeover to promote both the organization and their own artistic practice.

After becoming familiar with the daily operations of Spudnik Press Cooperative, interns are able to focus on a larger project that builds off of their abilities and learning goals, while meeting the needs of our studio. Studio Assistant Interns will work closely with various staff throughout their internship and report to the Executive Director.

All interns receive a complimentary Annual Membership as well as 24/7 keyholder access for the duration of their internship.

Skills & Qualifications:

  • Familiarity with and appreciation for fine art print making (required) with hands-on experience making prints (preferred). While interns will strengthen their printmaking skills, interns should not expect to fully learn new printing process during the internship.
  • Interest in art administration, education, fine art printing, and/or community-based art projects.
  • Outgoing demeanor and strong communication skills
  • Reliable and self-driven
  • Organized and able to meet deadlines
  • Priority is given to students in their final year of school

Download the College Internship Job Description

To Apply:

  • Submit a cover letter, resume, and work samples to angee@spudnikpress.org.
  • Work samples may be sent as a website or 3-5 .jpeg images.
  • Applications will be reviewed until the positions are filled.

Everyone’s safety is important to us. Participation in this program requires being onsite at Spudnik Press Cooperative and that per our Covid-19 Policy, all artists accepted into the program will be required to provide staff with proof of vaccination. Where possible, we will make reasonable accommodations for artists with a medical or religious exemption.


Spudnik Press Cooperative does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, selection of interns . We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.

Our Accessibility page includes additional information about getting to the studio and using the equipment.

Spudraiser 2021: Annual Benefit for Spudnik Press Cooperative

Online Benefit Auction
Launches: Monday, October 11, 2021, 8:00 a.m. CST
Closes: Sunday, October 24, 11:59 p.m. CST

VIP Reception
Friday, October 15, 2021
6:00 – 9:00 p.m. CST
$250 for Admission for two

Staff Skill Share Watch Party
Monday, October 18, 2021
7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CST
$25 minimum donation

The Spudnik Press Cooperative Annual Benefit is back! Now known as The Spudraiser, this annual fundraising rally is the fertilizer that keeps our doors open, presses running year round, and programs within reach for anyone who wishes to be creative through print.

Our annual art-focused auction returns with a refreshing twist: In addition to being able to bid on artwork from established artists, up-and-coming artists, and Spudnik members, supporters will be able to directly purchase select artworks from our Editions Program or sponsor exciting opportunities and training for artists and students.

Embracing that education is baked into every aspect of our organization, our staff has pulled together the ultimate Skill Share: Join the Watch Party to learn six new skills from the fine folks who run the studio day in day out, or download the recording for when you are ready to try out pysanky egg dying, make a handmade pillow, or cook up a French crepe!

For our VIP guests craving a visit to our studio, we are hosting an intimate limited capacity reception (proof of vaccination required) where you’ll be able to tour the art, enjoy appetizers and drinks, partake in live art demonstrations, and more.

Only have $10 to give? Our raffle for Untitled, 2018 by William J O’Brien is the perfect way to support.

Artwork for Auction by:

Mara Baker, Leslie Baum, Elijah BurgherHolly CahillEdward Cushenberry, Michael Goepferd, Adriane Herman, Richard Hull, Carol Jackson, Valerie Jacobs, Jaclyn JacunskiVesna Jovanovic, Arnold Kemp, Dutes Miller, Dominic Moore, Yasaman MoussaviAya Nakamura, B. Ingrid Olson, Carl Ramsey, Steve Reinke, Richard Repasky, Jake Saunders, Hugh Spector, Ann Toebbe, & Scott Wolniak

and Spudnik Press Members:

Alexandra Antoine, Elizabeth Burke-Dain, Riley Brady, Cam Collins, Hellen Colman, Aaron HughesAbbas Husain, Kumaran Mudaliar, Nat Pyper, Osée Obaonrin, & Don Widmer

Plus Spudnik Editions for Sale from:

Alberto Aguilar, Erin Hayden, Sarah Hotchkiss, David LeggettJoe Tallerico, & Latham Zearfoss
(Additional artworks to be made available upon sales of these prints)

Host Committee:

Holly Cahill, Jessica Cochran & Eric Matthews, Mary DeYoe & Christopher Smith, Adriane Herman, Claudine Isé, Jaclyn Jacunski, Steve Reinke & Brian Jones

Private Studio Available October 1: Printshop North

Housed within a 3,000 square foot shared workspace and community printshop, our private studios are ideal for active printmakers, as well as book artists, and artists who work with a variety of 2-D media or small scale 3-D media.

Status:

Available October 1, 2021.

Rent:

$430/month includes 24-hour access to Printshop equipment and general supplies.

Amenities:

8 x 15 feet
8 foot walls, high ceilings
Locking door
Includes A/C, heat, internet, utilities
Hardwood floors

Email angee@spudnikpress.org with questions or to schedule a time to see the studio.

Interested in 24-hour access but don’t need a private studio? Learn about Keyholder Access.