Spike Print Fair is a new contemporary print fair bringing together artists, printmakers, illustrators, designers and small presses from across the UK. Presented by Spike Island and Spike Print Studio in partnership with UWE Bristol School of Arts and Centre for Print Research (CFPR).

Across three days, Spike Island will transform into a vibrant marketplace for original prints, publications and artist editions. Visitors can buy work directly from artists, discover emerging and established practitioners, and explore one of the UK’s most dynamic printmaking communities.

The fair forms part of Spike Island 50, an anniversary programme marking 50 years since Spike Island and Spike Print Studio were founded in 1976. Looking both backwards and forwards, the programme celebrates the organisation’s artist-led origins and ongoing commitment to supporting creative experimentation, artistic communities and access to contemporary art.

Whether you’re an experienced collector, practising artist or simply curious about contemporary print, Spike Print Fair offers a welcoming opportunity to discover and support independent artists and printmakers.

WORKSHOPS

Alongside stalls from exhibitors across the UK, Spike Print Fair includes a programme of hands-on workshops, demonstrations and family activities introducing visitors to a wide range of printmaking techniques. Workshops across the weekend include screenprinting, linocut, zine-making and experimental print processes, alongside live demonstrations exploring both traditional and contemporary approaches to print and tours of the largest open access print studio in the South West.

SPIKE PRINT STUDIO

Spike Print Studio is a Bristol-based charitable organisation offering exceptional printmaking facilities to all. It is the largest open-access print studio in the South West and an active network for artist printmakers in the region and beyond. Through a varied programme of courses, workshops and memberships, SPS welcomes everyone from absolute beginners to professional printmakers and artists.

Founded in 1976 by Peter Reddick as Bristol Print Workshop, the studio grew from his commitment to making printmaking accessible, particularly those leaving college without access to facilities. A founder member of Bristol Artspace, Peter played a key role in establishing the studio at Spike Island. His ethos of inclusivity continues to shape the studio today.

Now known as Spike Print Studio, SPS is a thriving community offering a warm and supportive environment for those interested in printmaking. Our open access studio membership provides expert technical support for beginners and experienced artists. Their learning programme includes year long portfolio courses, summer schools, one-day workshops, and a core programme of five and ten week courses across all printmaking techniques.

www.spikeprintstudio.org

CENTRE FOR PRINT RESEARCH, UWE BRISTOL

Since 1998, the Centre for Print Research [CFPR] has been at the forefront of interdisciplinary print innovation, combining knowledge and skills across traditional and digital techniques to reflect, innovate, and find creative solutions for the future of making and production. It has developed partnerships with world-leading academic institutions and has an outstanding record of working with collaborators across various sectors, including fine art, print, craft, design, material science and engineering.

CFPR is a distinctive centre of research excellence based at the University of the West of England, situated in the School of Arts. Our vision and approach are focused on people, collaboration, and creativity, converting intangible ideas into tangible outcomes. The Centre continues to evolve through its ability to influence resilience and diversification.

cfpr.uwe.ac.uk/