BY LAURA EINSTEIN
The Center for Contemporary Printmaking (CCP) was founded as a nonprofit in 1995 by Grace and William Shanley and a group of like-minded artists and community leaders. From its beginning, CCP”™s mission has been to support, preserve and advance the art of original prints. The Center is dedicated to increasing awareness, knowledge and appreciation for prints and the process of printmakÂing through exhibitions, publications, educational programs and artist workshops.
- Laura Einstein
On June 13, CCP celebrated its 20th anniversary with a luncheon gala at the Greenwich Polo Club and the Brant Foundation Art Study Center. It was our founder Grace Shanley”™s vision that was shared with William Frank, chairman of the board of directors, that CCP would branch out from Norwalk to celebrate in a way that the center hadn”™t done before. It was through Grace”™s stewardship, along with the Shanley family and those committed early members, that we have continued to evolve and expand. CCP continues to grow with the assistance of both new and longtime artists, members and friends who continue to ensure our success.
The Center boasts an energetic exhibition program with its current exhibition, “10th Biennial International Miniature Print Exhibition” on view through Aug. 30 that was juried by Lyle Williams, curator of prints and drawings at the McNay Art Museum, San Antonio, Texas. Williams selected 108 miniature prints from more than 688 submissions from 18 states and 15 countries. The works of art are from 57 artists. Following this exhibition is our “Highlights of the Past Twenty Years” exhibition running Sept. 13-Nov. 8. CCP”™s Holiday Cash and Carry is always popular, providing the chance to purchase works of art by member artists. “William Kentridge: The Nose Series” will be on display in early 2016. We are currently planning events to showcase the Shostakovich opera in addition to the suite of 30 prints created by Kentridge.
The Center for Contemporary Printmaking continues to grow, evolve and expand. Please stop by to sign up for a workshop, work on your own projects, purchase a work of art and view a first-rate exhibition. I look forward to seeing you soon.
Laura Einstein is executive director of the Center for Contemporary Printmaking, a member of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County.
