NontoxicPrint.com

Nontoxic Printmaking

A Research Resource and
Workshop Guide
for
Artists, Educators
and Printmakers




Tom Drew, acrylic resist etching                                                                Friedhard Kiekeben, Shatter, etched brass object


This resource is dedicated to the dissemination of recent research into alternatives to the toxic hazards of traditional printmaking. New printmaking systems developed since the mid 1980s offer safer methods that have been backed through research and scientific testing. Nontoxic Printmaking offers exciting and expanded creative possibilities, whilst being true to the aesthetic and rich heritage of printed art.

The need for change in the field of printmaking is compelling. Scientific studies confirm the toxicity of many of the solvents, acids and other materials that are found in the traditional print shop. There is strong evidence that conventional practice is detrimental to health. Long term practice of traditional printmaking, be it in etching, lithography or screenprinting, may lead to serious illness in long term practitioners of the art. In education the various traditional methods can be at odds with health and safety regulations.

The new methodology has matured over two decades of intense growth and development and is increasingly being accepted as mainstream practice. Many articles and books have been published on the subject but to the outsider this apparent diversity may be confusing. This new resource endeavors to present recent developments with clarity and within a more unified framework; it includes invited contributions from artists, innovators and members of the scientific community as well as links to many print-related resources.
The site aims to build into a forum for contemporary Printmaking Innovation.

Friedhard Kiekeben


Friedhard Kiekeben (RCA), main author and editor of www.nontoxicprint.com works as an artist and researcher and is Professor of Printmaking at Columbia College Chicago. Affiliations include key experts in contemporary printmaking research such as Professor Keith Howard (RIT), author of The Contemporary Printmaker.

Please note that the term Non-toxic has become synonymous with safety conscious practice. Non-toxic processes still use a variety of chemicals, and the ultimate safety of any material and process is dependent on their informed use.

This is a not-for-profit resource; it serves the advancement of knowledge in printmaking.
You are very welcome to use, copy and quote information from this resource.

Please acknowledge the intellectual rights of all authors and sources.

Where possible, all contributions and links are published with permission.
Please contact us should you not wish to be referenced within this resource.

To contact Friedhard Kiekeben

Email:
  fkiekeben@yahoo.com
             fkiekeben@colum.edu
Web:   www.FriedhardKiekeben.com


Web Editor: Jennifer Kiekeben
Email: jhkiekeben@yahoo.com